State Becomes 34th to Implement National Health Assurance Scheme

The Government of Odisha has officially joined the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), marking a pivotal advancement in the state’s healthcare infrastructure. This strategic integration is set to provide comprehensive health coverage to approximately 1.03 crore families, equating to nearly 86% of Odisha’s population.

Convergence with Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana

The implementation of AB PM-JAY in Odisha will operate in convergence with the state’s existing Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY). This unified approach offers a health coverage of ₹5 lakh per family annually, with an additional ₹5 lakh allocated for female family members. Notably, the Union Government will support 67.8 lakh of these families under the converged scheme.

Enhanced Healthcare Accessibility

By joining AB PM-JAY, Odisha residents will gain access to cashless treatment across a vast network of over 29,000 empaneled hospitals nationwide, encompassing both government and private healthcare facilities. This expansion significantly broadens the scope of medical services available to the state’s populace, ensuring timely and equitable healthcare access.

Statements from Leadership

Union Health Minister JP Nadda lauded the development, stating, “Today is a historic day for Odisha. AB PM-JAY is not only the world’s largest health coverage scheme but also the fastest to be implemented since conception.” He further emphasized the scheme’s digital integration, covering approximately 45% of India’s population.

Odisha’s Chief Minister expressed optimism about the collaboration, highlighting the potential to address health disparities and prioritize economically disadvantaged communities through the converged healthcare scheme.