The Delhi cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekhta Gupta, has approved the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat Yojana in the national capital.
This decision was taken during her first cabinet meeting, marking a significant policy shift from the previous AAP government’s stance on the scheme.
The Ayushman Bharat scheme, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, provides health insurance coverage of ₹5 lakh per family per year.
However, the earlier government under Arvind Kejriwal had opposed its implementation in Delhi, arguing that it would be a step down from the healthcare services already available in the city.
Now, with a ₹5 lakh top-up from the Delhi government, the scheme is set to be introduced in the capital, expanding its reach and benefits to residents.
During the cabinet meeting, Rekhta Gupta stated that two major decisions were made. The first was the approval of the Ayushman Bharat scheme, which had been blocked by the previous administration.
She emphasised that the scheme is meant to benefit people across the country and should not have been withheld from Delhiites. With the additional financial support from the state government, eligible beneficiaries will receive enhanced healthcare coverage.
The second agenda discussed was the tabling of 14 pending reports from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) in the Delhi Legislative Assembly.
The chief minister pointed out that these reports had not been presented by the former government, despite their importance in ensuring financial accountability and transparency. She announced that these reports will be tabled in the first session of the Assembly.
Rekhta Gupta reiterated her commitment to fulfilling her government’s promises and ensuring that all pending matters are addressed systematically. She assured that every commitment made to the people of Delhi will be taken up and passed in the Assembly without unnecessary delays.
The decision to implement the Ayushman Bharat scheme marks a crucial change in Delhi’s healthcare policy. The previous administration had maintained that the city’s healthcare infrastructure, including mohalla clinics and free hospital services, already provided extensive coverage.
However, with the new government’s approval, the scheme will now extend its benefits to Delhi’s residents, ensuring wider access to quality healthcare.
The chief minister’s announcement is expected to have a significant impact on healthcare accessibility in the capital. Many people who were previously excluded from the benefits of Ayushman Bharat due to political differences will now be able to avail themselves of its services.
The additional top-up from the Delhi government is also expected to enhance the overall coverage, making healthcare more affordable and accessible to a larger population.
As Rekhta Gupta settles into her role as chief minister, her first cabinet meeting reflects her focus on policy implementation and governance.
With the approval of Ayushman Bharat and the decision to table the CAG reports, the new administration is signaling a shift towards greater transparency and efficiency.
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