In a major boost to accessible healthcare, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi inaugurated 81 new Ayushman Arogyya Mandir clinics across the city on Wednesday. The event, attended by AAP leader Harsh Malhotra, marks a significant expansion of the government’s flagship health initiative aimed at providing free treatment to millions.
These new facilities bring advanced diagnostic and treatment services right to the doorsteps of underserved communities. Each Arogya Mandir is equipped with modern labs, X-ray machines, and specialist consultations, ensuring comprehensive care under one roof. Officials highlighted that this expansion will benefit over 5 lakh additional residents, reducing the burden on major hospitals.
Harsh Malhotra, a prominent AAP spokesperson, lauded the Kejriwal government’s commitment during the inauguration. ‘This is a game-changer for Delhi’s poor and middle-class families,’ he said, crediting the administration’s focus on health infrastructure. Malhotra pointed out that since 2015, thousands of such clinics have transformed the capital’s healthcare landscape, slashing out-of-pocket expenses by up to 70%.
The initiative aligns with the national Ayushman Bharat scheme but goes further with Delhi’s model of mohalla clinics. Critics have previously questioned sustainability, but recent data shows a 40% drop in emergency admissions at public hospitals. Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj emphasized that these clinics offer 24/7 services, including yoga and Ayurveda integration for holistic wellness.
As Delhi gears up for upcoming elections, this development underscores AAP’s health-first agenda. Residents queued up on day one, expressing relief over shorter waits and free medicines. With 81 new centers operational, the city now boasts over 500 such facilities, setting a benchmark for urban healthcare delivery. The government plans further expansions, promising a healthier capital for all.