Madhya Pradesh Launches Ayushman Pakhwada to Mark Six Years of Ayushman Bharat Yojana

Deputy CM Rajendra Shukla inaugurated 'Ayushman Pakhwada' at Kailashnath Katju Hospital in Bhopal, celebrating six years of Ayushman Bharat Yojana. The campaign emphasizes issuing Ayushman cards to senior citizens over 70, aiming for widespread awareness and enrollment in the health scheme.

The Deputy Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Rajendra Shukla, inaugurated 'Ayushman Pakhwada' on the sixth anniversary of the Ayushman Bharat Yojana at Kailashnath Katju Government Hospital in Bhopal on Monday. This initiative, celebrated statewide from September 20 to September 30, marks six years of the scheme's successful implementation, according to an official release.

During the Pakhwada, efforts will be made to raise awareness about the benefits of Ayushman Bharat Yojana and issue Ayushman cards to eligible individuals. The campaign particularly targets senior citizens over 70 years of age, adopting a door-to-door approach. Deputy CM Shukla emphasized the significance of this effort, highlighting how Prime Minister Narendra Modi has provided a 'security shield for the country's poor.'

In his statement, Shukla expressed that the initiative brings extra happiness as it ensures coverage for elderly citizens across all sections of society. Additionally, Shukla shared his experiences on social media, interacting with beneficiaries and reiterating the inclusive approach of the scheme. With 4.70 crore beneficiaries in Madhya Pradesh, the scheme's expansion continues to offer health coverage to disadvantaged groups, including victims of the Bhopal gas tragedy. The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, which launched on September 23, 2018, provides Rs 5 lakh in annual health cover per family, benefiting over 55 crore individuals. The Union Cabinet recently approved health coverage for all senior citizens aged 70 and above, irrespective of income.

(With inputs from agencies.)