JP Nadda Unveils Ayushman Bharat Initiative in Odisha

Synopsis

Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda launched the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri – Jan Arogya Yojana in Odisha, at Bali Jatra Ground, enhancing healthcare access for millions. The Ayushman Vaya Vandana Yojana for senior citizens was also introduced, aiming to provide comprehensive coverage irrespective of socio-economic status.

Key Takeaways

Ayushman Bharat scheme extends to 1.3 crore families in Odisha.
Over 8.19 crore people have accessed healthcare services under the scheme.
Out-of-pocket expenses have significantly decreased from 62% to 38%.
Odisha government aims to establish medical colleges in all districts.
Healthcare infrastructure strengthened with Rs. 1,411 crore investment.

Bhubaneswar, April 11 (NationPress) Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda officially launched the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri – Jan Arogya Yojana in Odisha at a special gathering held at the Bali Jatra Ground in Cuttack. The Ayushman Vaya Vandana Yojana was also inaugurated during this event.

While addressing the attendees, Nadda remarked, “Today marks a momentous occasion for Odisha as the AB-PMJAY, recognized as the world’s largest health coverage initiative, which currently benefits 62 crore individuals, will extend its reach to about 1.3 crore families, or nearly 3.52 crore residents of Odisha.” He added that over 8.19 crore people have utilized services provided under the scheme, with a staggering Rs 1.26 lakh crore invested to ensure healthcare access for the nation's populace.

The Health Minister emphasized that approximately 61 crore people are now included in the scheme, a significant increase from the previous coverage of more than 55 crore. He further noted that ASHAs, Anganwadi workers, and their families, totaling around 36 lakh individuals, have been integrated into the program.

Nadda continued, “In October of the previous year, individuals aged 70 and above were included in the scheme and now, with the implementation of Ayushman Vaya Vandana in Odisha, all senior citizens aged 70 years and older, regardless of their socio-economic background, will be eligible for coverage.” He highlighted that the out-of-pocket expenditure has dropped from 62 percent to 38 percent due to the execution of the Ayushman Bharat initiative.

Moreover, he pointed out that under the 100-day TB Intensified Elimination Programme, Odisha played a proactive role by identifying 16,500 new TB cases. “Under PM ABHIM, Rs. 1,411 crore has been allocated to enhance Odisha's healthcare infrastructure,” he noted.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, while speaking at the event, described the launch as “another significant milestone in Odisha's development narrative.” He stated, “From this day forth, Odisha’s beneficiaries will receive complimentary healthcare services. Odia individuals living outside the state will also be eligible to avail themselves of these services in hospitals beyond the state’s borders.”

Majhi disclosed that over 4,000 doctors have been appointed under the current administration, with an additional 5,000 positions currently being filled. He reiterated the state government's dedication to bolstering the healthcare infrastructure, declaring a goal to establish medical colleges in every district.

Union Health Minister Nadda arrived at Bhubaneswar Airport for a two-day visit to the state. He is set to inaugurate a training program for BJP MLAs and MPs from Odisha on Saturday, with the training camp commencing in Puri on Friday evening and continuing until April 13.