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New Delhi, February 13, 2024 – Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya reiterated the government’s commitment to providing affordable and accessible healthcare to every citizen, reflecting Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of an ‘Ayushman’ nation. Dr. Mandaviya underscored the government’s efforts over the past decade to bridge the gap between rich and poor in accessing quality healthcare services, emphasizing the transformative impact of initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY and Ayushman Arogya Mandir scheme.
Speaking on the achievements of Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY and Ayushman Arogya Mandir scheme, Dr. Mandaviya highlighted that these initiatives have provided family health insurance of Rs 5 lakh annually to 60 crore people across the country. He emphasized the significant impact of these schemes in ensuring that even the underprivileged sections of society receive treatment in hospitals where previously only the affluent could afford. Dr. Mandaviya noted that over 6 crore people have benefited from these schemes, resulting in savings of more than Rs 1,12,500 crore for economically disadvantaged individuals.
Dr. Mandaviya also emphasized the importance of primary cancer screening through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, aimed at detecting cancer in its early stages. He noted the expansion of healthcare services to district hospitals, where complex operations are now being conducted, ensuring access to advanced medical care at the grassroots level.
Highlighting India’s progress in eliminating tuberculosis (TB) by 2025, Dr. Mandaviya spoke about the Prime Minister’s TB Free India Campaign, which provides free medicines, testing, and nutritional support to 25 lakh TB patients annually. He emphasized the financial assistance provided to TB patients, with Rs 2756 crore disbursed directly to their accounts over the past 5 years. Dr. Mandaviya also applauded the efforts of service-minded citizens who have adopted 10 lakh TB patients, providing them with nutrition support every month.
Further, Dr. Mandaviya shed light on the Sickle Cell Elimination Program, under which screening of about 7 crore people for sickle cell disease will be conducted in 3 years. He noted that medicines for sickle cell will be made available for free, with the government allocating Rs 910 crore for this initiative.
The remarks by Dr. Mandaviya underscore the government’s unwavering commitment to providing comprehensive healthcare services to all citizens, ensuring that no one is left behind. These initiatives reflect India’s proactive approach towards addressing healthcare challenges and fostering a healthier future for its citizens.
