How is Ayushman Bharat Transforming Lives in Uttarakhand?

New Delhi, Sep 17 (NationPress) The Central government’s flagship healthcare initiative, Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), is emerging as a crucial support for numerous individuals in the isolated regions of Uttarakhand, especially within Chamoli district, where over 72 percent of the populace is reaping the benefits of complimentary health insurance.

Official statistics reveal that 229,384 individuals in Chamoli district are currently enrolled in the program. Among them, more than 51,000 beneficiaries have already received free medical treatment across various hospitals, including both government and affiliated private facilities.

Pawan Kumar, a patient currently hospitalized at the District Hospital in Gopeshwar, recounted his experience: “I’ve been here for a week. Thanks to the Ayushman card, all my treatment has been completely free. This scheme is indeed a blessing for underprivileged individuals like myself,” he expressed with gratitude towards the Central government.

Another beneficiary, Surendra Singh Kandari, whose wife Urmila Devi recently had a successful gallstone surgery, commended the program: “She suffered for a prolonged period. After diagnosis, the doctors suggested immediate surgery. Since we possessed an Ayushman card, the entire treatment was free. We are thankful to the government for this outstanding initiative.”

Shobhit Singh, who brought his ailing grandmother to the hospital, shared, “All diagnostic tests were performed at no cost. It was a significant relief for our family. We’re incredibly appreciative.”

Initiated under the National Health Policy 2017 to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC), Ayushman Bharat is recognized as the world’s largest health assurance program, providing up to Rs 5 lakh of free medical treatment annually to economically disadvantaged families. The program has now been extended to include senior citizens, further broadening its impact.

Ayushman Bharat has been created not only to deliver financial protection against overwhelming health expenditures but also to enhance the primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare framework in the nation. It comprises two essential components: Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) and Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY).

By facilitating preventive, promotive, and curative care across all levels, the program aligns with India’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and its commitment to “Leave No One Behind.”

As an increasing number of citizens come under its protective coverage, Ayushman Bharat is not merely a scheme but a potent instrument of social equity, bridging the divide between healthcare accessibility and affordability, particularly in India’s underserved areas.