The Bihar government launched the Ayushman Scheme to provide health benefits for above 70-year.
Patna November 20, 2024: The Bihar government has officially launched the Ayushman Vandan Scheme, aimed at providing free healthcare for elderly citizens aged 70 and above.
The initiative, spearheaded by Mangal Pandey, the health minister of Bihar government and Urban Development Minister Nitin Naveen, was inaugurated at the Maurya Lok Complex in Patna.
The scheme ensures that elderly individuals in Bihar no longer have to worry about treatment expenses, as the state will bear the cost of their medical care.
Bihar government is aiming to distribute 50 lakh Ayushman Cards:
The state aims to issue 50 lakh Ayushman Vandan cards by December 12, 2024. As of now, Ayushman cards have been issued to 1.51 crore families.
Mangal Panday emphasized the importance of the scheme, stating that Bihar has already saved Rs.1,800 crore through the Ayushman cards and is progressing towards becoming a leader in healthcare accessibility nationwide.
In Patna, the Municipal Corporation has been tasked with conducting a door-to-door campaign in all 75 wards to identify eligible beneficiaries and facilitate card issuance.
‘In Patna, the Municipal Corporation will lead a campaign across all 75 wards to identify eligible elderly individuals and ensure their enrolment. The card-making process is completely free of cost. A systematic drive has been initiated, where municipal and health officials will actively reach out to senior citizens to enrol them in the scheme,” Mangal Pandey said.
It is a free initiative for elderly people:
The Urban Development Department of the Bihar government will oversee similar campaigns across the state.
Urban Development Minister Nitin Naveen highlighted the Prime Minister’s commitment to the welfare of the people, reiterating the promise made and fulfilled through this initiative.
“Citizens do not need to pay for the issuance of the Ayushman card. The process is entirely free of charge. To avail of this card, people should have an Aadhar Card, Residence Certificate, ration Card and Mobile Number,’ Naveen said.
The scheme ensures free medical treatment for individuals aged 70 and above, as part of a broader health initiative under the Ayushman Bharat Yojana.
It is expected to greatly benefit Bihar’s elderly population and improve access to healthcare.
This scheme is seen as a significant step towards universal healthcare for Bihar’s elderly population and is expected to make a positive impact on the lives of millions.
EOM.