Bhubaneswar: An investigation will soon be launched into the alleged corruption in the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (BSKY), announced Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on Thursday.
Addressing the media, the Law Minister stated that the inquiry would focus on the reported irregularities and corruption in the BSKY.
“Earlier, despite the availability of BSKY cards, many beneficiaries were denied access to services. In numerous cases, patients were exploited, and hospitals imposed arbitrary charges. Corruption was widespread, involving several individuals connected to the previous government. An investigation into these issues will be initiated soon,” Harichandan remarked.
Furthermore, the Law Minister highlighted the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), emphasising its robust insurance-based model which ensures that people will not face exploitation under the scheme.
In a related development, the Odisha Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Central Government on Monday to join the Ayushman Bharat scheme, the world’s largest health insurance initiative.
As part of this, the state has integrated its existing healthcare program, the Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana, into Ayushman Bharat. The initiative is expected to benefit 1.03 crore families in Odisha, marking a significant step toward improving healthcare access in the state.