NEW DELHI: The Ayushman Bhava initiative is set to be launched by the government on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday this year, which falls on September 17th. Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced this move with the aim of ensuring the efficient delivery of all state-run health programs to their intended beneficiaries, even those in the most remote areas.

Mandaviya stated, "This year, in celebration of PM Modi's birthday, we will roll out the 'Ayushman Bhava' program to guarantee the optimal execution of all government health schemes, reaching every designated recipient, including those in the most underserved regions."

As part of this program, special camps will be established to distribute Ayushman Bharat cards to 60,000 individuals. Mandaviya elaborated, "These camps will serve as a means to provide Ayushman Bharat cards to 60,000 people. We intend to expand and enhance the frequency of this program in the future to ensure wider access to healthcare services and initiatives."

Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) stands as the world's largest health protection scheme, offering health coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh per beneficiary family each year.

Mandaviya also reflected on the previous year's emphasis on Tuberculosis (TB) during PM Modi's birthday celebration, stating, "In the past year, you may have noticed that on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday, we brought attention to the issue of Tuberculosis. PM Modi has previously declared India's goal to eliminate TB by the end of 2025, ahead of the global target of 2030. Last year, approximately 70,000 individuals became 'Nikshay Mitra' and adopted TB patients. This number has now grown to one lakh, encompassing NGOs, individuals, political parties, and corporate entities."

He went on to explain that every month, nutrient kits are provided, and extensive support is extended to TB patients. The government is confident that through the collaborative effort of 'Lok Bhagidari' (people's participation), TB can be eradicated from the country.

In 2022, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) initiated a year-long campaign to make India TB-free, encouraging citizens to adopt a TB patient and provide care for one year. This initiative aligns with PM Modi's vision of achieving a TB-free India by 2025.

Prime Minister Modi, born on September 17, 1950, in the small town of Vadnagar in Gujarat's Mehsana district, continues to be a driving force behind transformative health and welfare programs in India.

Mandaviya Emphasizes Govt's Commitment to Healthcare Coordination with States