PM Modi Criticizes Delhi and WB Policies
PM Modi Criticizes Delhi and West Bengal for Non-Implementation of Ayushman Bharat Scheme
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently expressed disappointment with the Delhi and West Bengal governments for not implementing the Ayushman Bharat scheme. Citing “political interests,” he emphasized that the non-participation of these states deprives senior citizens of essential healthcare benefits, particularly as the program is now extended to include all citizens aged 70 and above.
Extension of Ayushman Bharat Scheme
In a recent address, Prime Minister Modi expanded the Ayushman Bharat scheme to cover all senior citizens aged 70 and above across India. The scheme aims to provide free healthcare to the elderly, significantly reducing the financial burden associated with medical expenses. Under this extension, eligible citizens will receive an “Ayushman Vaya Vandana” card to access treatment at participating hospitals, thus ensuring their medical needs are met without any financial strain.
Criticism of Delhi and West Bengal’s Political Stance
The Prime Minister did not shy away from addressing his concerns regarding the Delhi and West Bengal governments, emphasizing that these states’ refusal to implement the Ayushman Bharat scheme stems from political motives. He highlighted that the elderly citizens of these regions are suffering due to a lack of access to the scheme’s benefits, expressing regret for being unable to help them due to what he termed “walls of political interests.” Modi argued that such decisions are detrimental to citizens’ well-being, particularly the vulnerable elderly population.
Impact of Ayushman Bharat on Healthcare Access
The Ayushman Bharat scheme has already benefitted nearly four crore individuals across the country, according to Modi. He shared that without the scheme, these people would have spent an estimated ₹1.25 lakh crore on healthcare expenses out of pocket. This flagship program under the Ayushman Bharat scheme has allowed many in the lower-income and middle-class demographics to access affordable medical services, reducing the financial burden associated with healthcare.
Modi Highlights Additional Healthcare Initiatives
Prime Minister Modi elaborated on the government’s focus on healthcare, citing initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras, which provide medicines at an 80% discount. These centers have saved citizens ₹30,000 crore on medicines, and with 14,000 such centers now operational, the impact on healthcare accessibility has been significant.
Further, he highlighted that the government has worked to lower the prices of medical devices, including stents and knee implants, leading to substantial savings for patients. He also mentioned free dialysis services and the Mission Indradhanush campaign, aimed at protecting pregnant women and infants from life-threatening diseases.
Increasing Healthcare Infrastructure
In his address, the Prime Minister noted that over the past decade, a record number of new AIIMS and medical colleges have been established, expanding healthcare infrastructure and increasing access to medical education. He affirmed the government’s commitment to adding 75,000 more medical seats over the next five years to help meet India’s growing demand for healthcare professionals.
Hospitals have been inaugurated in states like Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh, and the foundation stones of new medical colleges have been laid in multiple locations. These developments reflect the government’s commitment to building a comprehensive healthcare network across the country.
Digital and Preventive Healthcare Initiatives
PM Modi also focused on the importance of preventive healthcare. He mentioned that over two lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have been established to offer early diagnosis of diseases like cancer, hypertension, and diabetes. By facilitating timely diagnosis, these centers help reduce healthcare costs for patients. Modi further emphasized leveraging technology in healthcare through initiatives like the e-Sanjeevani scheme, which has already facilitated over 30 crore online doctor consultations, saving patients both time and money.
Modi also announced the launch of the U-win platform, inspired by the success of the Co-win platform during the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized that India aims to establish similar success in the healthcare sector through digital infrastructure.
Boosting AYUSH Sector and Healthcare Exports
The Prime Minister underscored the role of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) in Indian healthcare, with the sector growing from USD 3 billion in 2014 to nearly USD 24 billion in 2024. AYUSH products are now exported to 150 countries, benefitting Indian farmers who grow medicinal herbs. Modi also announced the Prakriti Parikshan Abhiyan, a new initiative for using Ayurveda principles in lifestyle and risk assessments, with the ultimate goal of further validating the benefits of traditional Indian herbs and medicines through scientific studies.
Future of Indian Healthcare
Prime Minister Modi concluded by emphasizing the need to continue advancing Indian healthcare both for the health of the nation and to benefit the economy. He noted that the progress of the AYUSH sector, advancements in medical education, and digital healthcare initiatives are transforming India’s healthcare landscape. The Prime Minister reiterated his commitment to affordable healthcare and the expansion of the Ayushman Bharat scheme, a vision that aligns with his goal of a healthier and self-reliant India.
Disclaimer: This article provides an overview of recent statements made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the Ayushman Bharat scheme and healthcare policies. All information is based on the Prime Minister’s address and current policies as of October 2024. For the latest updates, refer to official government announcements.