Delhi Govt Considers Ayushman Bharat Integration Without Curtailing Free Healthcare

Atishi outlined the primary concern with AB-PMJAY’s implementation, stating that its exclusions conflict with Delhi’s comprehensive free healthcare system.

Delhi Chief Minister Atishi has announced that the Health Department has been instructed to develop a mechanism to integrate the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) without withdrawing the Delhi government’s existing free healthcare benefits.

Speaking at a press conference, she affirmed the Delhi government’s willingness, in principle, to implement the Centre’s health insurance scheme but highlighted challenges in its execution.

Challenges in AB-PMJAY Implementation

Atishi outlined the primary concern with AB-PMJAY’s implementation, stating that its exclusions conflict with Delhi’s comprehensive free healthcare system.

“The government does not want to take away free medical care from anyone. Directions have been issued to ensure no resident of Delhi loses access to the healthcare services they currently receive while incorporating Ayushman Bharat’s benefits,” she said.

The Delhi High Court, on Wednesday, sought the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government’s stance on a plea by seven BJP MPs urging the scheme’s implementation.

Opposition Criticizes Delay

BJP MP Ramvir Singh Bidhuri criticized the AAP government for delays, promising to implement AB-PMJAY in the first cabinet meeting if his party forms the government after the next Assembly elections.

He accused the government of ignoring public health needs despite earlier assurances by former deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia that the scheme would be rolled out.

BJP MPs, including New Delhi MP Bansuri Swaraj, questioned the government’s financial reasoning.

“The Delhi government often cites financial constraints to justify issues in healthcare but refuses additional funding under AB-PMJAY,” she said.

To push for the scheme’s rollout, BJP MPs announced a signature campaign from December 1 to December 7. They aim to mobilize public support to compel the Delhi government to implement AB-PMJAY.

While the AAP government seeks to balance existing healthcare benefits with the integration of Ayushman Bharat, political debates over the scheme’s rollout underline its significance for Delhi’s healthcare landscape.