New Delhi, Sep 23 (NationPress) The Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) has transformed healthcare in India, propelling the nation towards a healthier future where no individual is overlooked, declared Union Health Minister JP Nadda on the seventh anniversary of the program.

Initiated on September 23, 2018, AB PM-JAY stands as the world’s most extensive health insurance initiative, ensuring that essential healthcare is within reach for all.

This scheme offers a health coverage of Rs. 5 lakh per family annually for secondary and tertiary care hospitalizations, benefiting an estimated 55 crore individuals, which represents 12.37 crore families from the economically disadvantaged 40% of India’s populace.

“Today signifies seven fruitful years of Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, the largest government-funded health assurance program initiated under the insightful leadership of PM Narendra Modi,” Nadda stated in a post on X.

“Serving over 55 crore beneficiaries, it now guarantees universal health coverage for every citizen over 70 years old, irrespective of their socio-economic background. This initiative has been a reliable support to families during challenging times,” he emphasized.

The health insurance program has played a crucial role in minimizing Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE) by enhancing social security and increasing investments in primary health services.

As of June, more than 9.84 crore hospital admissions, amounting to over Rs. 1.40 lakh crore, have been sanctioned under the flagship AB PM-JAY scheme, according to Health Ministry statistics.

Moreover, “a total of 31,466 hospitals have been empanelled under the scheme nationwide, with 14,194 of them being private facilities” until June. Over 41 crore Ayushman Cards have also been issued across the country.

“A Swasth Bharat is essential for realizing the vision of a Viksit Bharat. With more than 1.8 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs across the nation, this initiative has revolutionized healthcare, addressing inequalities and granting millions dignified access to medical services,” Nadda remarked.

He attributed the triumph of Ayushman Bharat to “the collective efforts of the government, healthcare professionals, and the public. Together, we strive for a healthier India where no one is forgotten.”

“As we commemorate seven years of Ayushman Bharat, our aspiration is a future where every Indian, irrespective of their income or location, has equal access to superior healthcare. The challenge is significant, but our determination is unwavering,” Nadda concluded.

“In the coming years, Ayushman Bharat will continue to symbolize PM Narendra Modi's vision, the government's dedication, and the nation's resolve to safeguard the health of its citizens,” he added.