Cuttack: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced on Tuesday that the state will implement the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana within the next two weeks.
Majhi made the announcement during the state’s foundation day celebrations at Satyabhamapur in Cuttack district, marking a significant step toward expanding healthcare access for millions.
Initially slated for launch on April 1 alongside the Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana, the rollout was deferred, though Majhi did not elaborate on the reasons for the delay.
He emphasized that the scheme would benefit approximately 3.52 crore people across Odisha, offering cashless treatment at 29,000 hospitals nationwide. This extensive network includes facilities both within the state and beyond, ensuring specialized care for those in need.
Highlighting the scheme’s transformative potential, Majhi noted its focus on economically weaker sections, rural populations, and others unable to afford costly medical services.
He took a swipe at the previous Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government, accusing it of rejecting the Ayushman Bharat initiative during its tenure.
He pointed out that the earlier Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (BSKY) covered only 900 hospitals, while the new scheme vastly expands coverage to 29,000 facilities.
