PM Modi Receives Heartfelt Thanks from Ayushman Card Holders and GI Tag Recipients in Varanasi
Click to start listening
Synopsis
During his visit to Varanasi, PM Modi received heartfelt thanks from beneficiaries of the Ayushman Bharat scheme and recipients of GI tags, marking a significant moment in healthcare and cultural recognition.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi distributed Ayushman cards providing Rs 5 lakh medical coverage.
- 21 traditional products from Uttar Pradesh received GI tags.
- Beneficiaries expressed relief and gratitude for healthcare support.
- GI tags boost artisans' market opportunities.
- PM Modi emphasizes the transformation of healthcare in Purvanchal.
Varanasi, April 11 (NationPress) During his visit to Varanasi on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was warmly thanked by the recipients of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (PM-JAY) as well as those who received Geographical Indication (GI) certificates. This was his first trip to the sacred city since Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath marked eight years in office.
On this occasion, PM Modi handed out Ayushman cards, which provide free medical coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh, along with GI certificates to 21 newly recognized products from Uttar Pradesh, many of which showcase the state's rich cultural and artisanal legacy.
IANS spoke with beneficiaries of the Ayushman card and recipients of GI tags, who shared their uplifting stories.
Durga Devi, an Ayushman Bharat beneficiary, expressed her happiness, stating, “I received the Ayushman Card with Rs 5 lakh coverage. PM Modi personally asked how it would assist us. It’s a significant relief for my family.”
Rajendra Prasad, another beneficiary, mentioned, “Now, I won’t have to borrow money for treatment. I’m genuinely happy and relieved.”
Dinesh, also a recipient, conveyed his gratitude: “I’m very pleased. Now, I can afford to get my eyes treated, which I couldn’t before.”
In addition to healthcare initiatives, artisans and craftspeople from all over the state received GI tags, granting their traditional products formal acknowledgment and protection, while enhancing their market potential at national and international levels.
Sarita Devi, who received a GI tag for cultivating the fruit 'karonda', remarked, “I’ve been growing karonda since 2011. I’m grateful to PM Modi for recognizing our efforts. This acknowledgment will provide us an identity and create new opportunities. My grandparents did this, and we are continuing their legacy.”
Santosh Kumar Sandilya, an esteemed artist known as the 'Gangajal artist', was awarded the GI tag for his traditional street paintings of Banaras.
“This form of memorial painting is now acknowledged globally. With the GI tag, it will gain even more visibility. I thank the Prime Minister for ensuring that every unique aspect of Banaras is preserved and promoted,” he expressed.
Vandana, who received the GI tag for 'Tharu embroidery', a traditional craft of the Lakhimpur tribal community, added, “This is a significant move in promoting tribal art. Recognition like this enhances our income and identity. PM Modi is genuinely attentive to every detail.”
Tahir Salami, who crafts jewelry from animal bones, also shared his thanks: “Now that we’ve received the GI tag, our craftsmanship will be acknowledged, and we’ll be recognized for our artistry.”
Earlier in the day, while addressing a large crowd, PM Modi highlighted the influence of the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, especially for the elderly.
“The smiles on the faces of the elderly after receiving the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Cards are the greatest success of this scheme,” he stated.
He also pointed out the transformation in Purvanchal’s healthcare environment. “Previously, medical treatment was a major source of stress for families. Today, Kashi is evolving into a health capital.”
