Chandigarh is buzzing with anticipation as Punjab’s Aam Aadmi Party government rolls out its flagship health initiative, the Chief Minister Health Insurance Yojana, on Thursday. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will personally inaugurate the scheme at a grand event in Mohali, with AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal gracing the occasion. This ambitious program promises to transform healthcare access for millions across the state.
Under the scheme, every family in Punjab will receive free treatment coverage up to Rs 10 lakh. A dedicated health card will be issued to each household, enabling cashless medical services at both government hospitals and over 800 empanelled private facilities. Government estimates suggest that around 65 lakh families stand to benefit directly, ensuring no one is denied care due to financial constraints.
All public hospitals will continue providing completely free treatment as before. To make the rollout seamless, youth club volunteers are hitting the streets, distributing tokens door-to-door. Residents need only bring their Aadhaar card and voter ID to designated centers to get their health cards issued free of charge. The government has emphasized that no fees will be collected at any stage.
Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh recently highlighted the scheme’s significance, calling it a fulfillment of promises made by Mann and Kejriwal to deliver top-notch healthcare without economic burden. From card issuance to treatment, the entire cost will be borne by the state. Strict warnings have been issued against any exploitation in the name of welfare, with severe action promised for violators.
This launch marks a pivotal moment in Punjab’s health sector, aiming to bridge gaps in medical services and promote a healthier populace. As the scheme goes live, expectations are high for its impact on reducing out-of-pocket expenses and improving overall well-being.