CM Criticizes BJD Over Ayushman Bharat

Odisha CM Slams Previous BJD Government Over Non-Implementation of Ayushman Bharat
Bhubaneswar, Jan 14 : Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday criticized the previous Naveen Patnaik-led BJD government for not implementing the ‘Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana’ (AB-PMJAY) in the state, alleging that the move deprived people of critical health insurance benefits.
Addressing reporters at the Biju Patnaik International Airport upon his return from New Delhi, Majhi accused the BJD government of prioritizing its personal interests over public welfare. The CM was in the national capital to attend a programme where a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the Odisha government and the Centre for the scheme’s implementation.
Centre’s Scheme Delayed in Odisha
“Although the Central government rolled out the Ayushman Bharat scheme in 2018, the previous government in Odisha chose not to implement it, depriving millions of access to affordable healthcare,” Majhi said. He emphasized that the scheme’s absence in Odisha hindered the state’s progress in healthcare accessibility and financial protection for families.
New Chapter in Odisha’s Healthcare
The recent MoU between the Odisha government and the Centre is expected to bring a significant transformation in the state’s healthcare landscape. The CM assured that his government is committed to ensuring that the scheme reaches every eligible beneficiary, bridging gaps left by the earlier administration.
Ayushman Bharat, the world’s largest government-funded healthcare initiative, provides a coverage of ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization. The programme aims to reduce the financial burden of healthcare costs, especially for economically vulnerable families.
Political Repercussions
The CM’s remarks are likely to spark a political debate, with the opposition accusing the current administration of using the issue for political gains. Meanwhile, citizens and stakeholders await swift implementation of the scheme, hoping for improved healthcare access in the state.
This development marks a crucial step in addressing Odisha’s healthcare challenges and ensuring comprehensive coverage for its population.
