The government today said that all possible efforts are being taken to bridge the gap between patient and nursing staff to deliver quality health services. Speaking at function to mark the International Day of Nurses, Vice President Mohammed Hamid Ansari said that nurses and Midwives are the pillars of the health care system. The Health Minister Mr Ghulam Nabi Azad said that around ten lakh more nurses are required to cater to the ever increasing demand in the area of health care. He also reiterated the government's commitment to upgrade the nursing skill and improve the overall availability of nursing personnel. He also spelt out a number of initiatives taken by the government to strengthen the health care system in urban and rural areas.<br/>