Delhi Plans to Construct 34-36 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs: Pankaj Singh (IANS Exclusive)

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Delhi Plans to Construct 34-36 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs: Pankaj Singh (IANS Exclusive)

Synopsis

Delhi's government is planning to establish 34 to 36 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission, as reported by Health Minister Pankaj Singh. The initiative aims to improve healthcare access and infrastructure in the capital.

Key Takeaways

  • Establishment of 34-36 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.
  • Budget allocation of Rs 12,893 crore for health sector.
  • Focus on enhancing healthcare infrastructure.
  • Criticism of AAP regarding CAG report irregularities.
  • Financial protection under AB-PMJAY for families.

New Delhi, April 2 (NationPress) The Delhi government is set to build 34 to 36 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs as part of the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission, according to Health Minister Pankaj Singh.

During an exclusive conversation with IANS, the Health Minister stated: "Our objective is to establish approximately 34 or 35 kendras. I can’t pinpoint the exact count at this moment - it may vary from 30 to 36. The definitive number will be disclosed in the upcoming 15 to 20 days."

Singh also criticized the opposition AAP in light of the recent Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report.

"I urge the Opposition (AAP) to confront the facts. If a CAG report exists, they should at least take a moment to assess the errors they have made. They have misled the residents of Delhi and committed various blunders. Who will prevent them from facing the penalties for these mistakes and acknowledging the truth?" he remarked.

Referring to the CAG findings presented during the Delhi Assembly Budget session, which highlighted numerous irregularities during the AAP administration, Pankaj Singh asserted: "Those implicated in scams will face consequences. Our focus is on our responsibilities, and our party genuinely prioritizes the enhancement of the health system and is actively working to upgrade healthcare infrastructure."

Meanwhile, the Rekha Gupta-led BJP government has earmarked Rs 12,893 crore for the health sector in the 2025-26 budget to facilitate key initiatives such as the Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, the creation of two new medical colleges, and the addition of 16,186 beds in government hospitals.

A substantial portion of the budget will bolster flagship schemes like Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), aimed at delivering financial protection and affordable healthcare to a greater number of families in the capital.

Additionally, Rs 1,666.66 crore has been allocated under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM) to enhance critical care blocks and diagnostic services. Rs 320 crore will be directed towards establishing 400 Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs), also referred to as Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs).

The budget also includes Rs 9.92 crore for the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, which focuses on digitizing patient records and improving access to healthcare services.

Moreover, Rs 147.64 crore has been allocated to expand financial protection under AB-PMJAY, ensuring that more families can access free, cashless treatment for severe health conditions.