Ayushman Bharat: Preparations have been finalized for the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) in the capital. An agreement is set to be signed on March 18 between the National Health Authority (NHA) of the Central Government and the Health Department of the Delhi Government.
In Delhi for the first time
This agreement will facilitate the rollout of the scheme in Delhi, initiating the process of issuing Ayushman cards to eligible beneficiaries. It has been reported that the benefits of this scheme will be extended to economically disadvantaged individuals based on the socio-economic census conducted in 2011. Consequently, approximately six and a half lakh families in Delhi will be eligible for assistance. Additionally, elderly individuals aged 70 and above, as well as Asha and Anganwadi workers, will also qualify for the benefits of this scheme.
Free medical treatment up to Rs 5 lakh
Under PMJAY, there is a provision for free medical treatment up to Rs 5 lakh, with the Delhi government offering health insurance coverage for a duration of five years. This means that beneficiaries could receive free treatment totaling up to Rs 10 lakh. Such provisions will significantly alleviate the financial burden on the poor and elderly individuals over 70 years of age, allowing them to seek treatment in private hospitals without relying solely on government facilities.
BJP MLA OP Sharma from Vishwas Nagar in East Delhi has advocated for the inclusion of the eunuch community in the Mahila Samman Yojana, highlighting their status as a marginalized group. He emphasized that this scheme should prioritize the needs of eunuchs even more than those of women. The MLA has addressed a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and Delhi BJP state president Virendra Sachdeva regarding this matter.