PM Modi Criticizes AAP and TMC for Not Implementing Ayushman Bharat in Delhi and Bengal

Introduction

In a recent address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a strong stance against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Delhi and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal for choosing not to implement the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) in their states. PM Modi expressed disappointment that elderly residents in Delhi and Bengal remain excluded from this essential healthcare scheme, which aims to provide critical health coverage to vulnerable families. Here’s a detailed look at the PM's remarks, the Ayushman Bharat program, and the recent healthcare initiatives announced by the government.

Ayushman Bharat Scheme and Its Impact

Launched in 2018, AB-PMJAY is one of India’s largest health insurance programs, designed to offer an annual health cover of ₹5 lakh per family for secondary and tertiary care hospitalizations. It primarily targets the economically weaker sections of society, enabling access to quality healthcare without the burden of high medical expenses. According to PM Modi, nearly four crore people have already benefitted from AB-PMJAY, which has helped save approximately ₹1.25 lakh crore in healthcare costs for these families.

Criticism of AAP and TMC

Addressing an event on Ayurveda Day, PM Modi highlighted that the Ayushman Bharat scheme has been adopted by the majority of states, except for Delhi and West Bengal. He attributed this to “political interests,” suggesting that the ruling parties in these states prioritize their agendas over public welfare. The PM further apologized to the elderly citizens in these regions, acknowledging the lack of support for their healthcare needs despite their eligibility under the scheme.

PM Modi expressed that he was “pained” by the situation and emphasized the importance of joining AB-PMJAY to ensure affordable healthcare access for citizens across all states.

Healthcare Infrastructure Boost

As part of his efforts to strengthen the healthcare landscape in India, PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various health-related projects amounting to over ₹12,855 crore. The breakdown includes:

• Ministry of Health and Family Welfare: Projects worth ₹5,502 crore.
• Department of Pharmaceuticals: Initiatives worth ₹5,187 crore.
• Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC): Projects worth ₹1,641 crore.
• Ayush Ministry: Additional projects worth ₹525 crore.

These developments encompass the establishment of medical colleges in Mandsaur, Neemuch, and Seoni in Madhya Pradesh, the second phase of the All India Institute of Ayurveda, and the expansion of various AIIMS facilities.

Launch of the U-WIN Portal

PM Modi also launched the U-WIN portal, a digital platform for streamlining immunization services for pregnant women and children. By digitizing records and creating a secure platform for health information, U-WIN aims to replicate the success of India’s Co-WIN platform, which played a vital role during the COVID-19 vaccination drive.

With U-WIN, the government aims to make immunization data accessible and transparent, further integrating digital infrastructure in public health services. PM Modi highlighted that this initiative aligns with India’s commitment to leveraging digital solutions for public welfare, much like the globally recognized success of the UPI payment system.

Conclusion

The Ayushman Bharat scheme represents a significant step towards affordable healthcare in India. PM Modi’s recent remarks underline the need for all states to align on this initiative to ensure that healthcare access is available to everyone, especially the elderly and vulnerable. With substantial investments in healthcare infrastructure and the launch of digital platforms like U-WIN, India is progressing towards a more inclusive and accessible healthcare system. However, the participation of all states remains critical for the scheme’s success, ensuring that no one is left behind in this mission to make quality healthcare affordable for all.

Reference from :- https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/pm-modi-slams-aap-tmc-for-not-rolling-out-ayushman-cover/articleshow/114746041.cms