Vimarsh evaluated the ASHA Scheme instrumental in Uttar Pradesh for increase access to health care in the villages. This evaluation study was taken up by Vimarsh for SIFPSA, a state agency based in Uttar Pradesh promoting health and family welfare. The main objective of the study was to conduct a rapid appraisal of the scheme and to map the barriers in the uptake of the scheme in select 15 districts of the state.The barriers which the study addressed were both from the supply side as well as the demand side.

In order to better address the objectives and to make suitable recommendations in order to make the ASHA scheme more accountable, the view of the community members, ASHA, ANM, MoIC, District Programme Manager, CMO/ACMO and District Managers were taken via in depth interviews.

The study revealed that ASHA is a well accepted part of the community in the study districts. She is considered as a opinion leader as far as promotion of health services is concerned. A report detailing all the findings and recommendations was submitted to SIFPSA and the same has been appreciated by the client.