Ayushman Bharat to serve as great support system for the elderly: CM
In a major step towards enhancing healthcare access in Delhi, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has outlined a comprehensive plan for the rapid distribution of Ayushman Arogya cards and establishment of Arogya Mandirs across the city.
At a crucial meeting with Cabinet Ministers, public representatives and senior officers, the government reiterated its commitment to ensuring that every eligible citizen benefits from the Ayushman Bharat Yojana.
Rekha emphasised the importance of decentralising the distribution of Ayushman cards, which has already seen the issuance of 1,69,000 cards. The distribution will be carried out at the district level, with public representatives playing an instrumental role in identifying eligible beneficiaries. Special attention will be given to citizens aged 70 years and above, ensuring that this vulnerable age group receives immediate support under the scheme.
“As age increases, so do health complications. The Ayushman Bharat scheme will serve as a great support system for the elderly,” stated the Chief Minister.
A significant announcement was made regarding the “Vay Vandana Yojana”, which will soon be rolled out to benefit senior citizens across the city. This initiative will offer a range of healthcare services to the elderly, irrespective of their socio-economic status.
In addition to these measures, the Chief Minister revealed plans for the creation of 1,139 Arogya Mandirs across Delhi. These centers will not only provide general health consultations and awareness, but also be equipped with diagnostic services, medicines and preventive care. Smaller Arogya Mandirs will cater to populations of 15,000 people, offering 15 diagnostic tests and necessary medicines. Larger facilities for 50,000 residents will be equipped with up to 50 types of diagnostic tests. These larger centres will also offer normal delivery facilities and daycare services, making them a significant addition to the city’s healthcare infrastructure.
Every district will also see the establishment of an integrated public health laboratory to streamline diagnostic testing and consolidate reports digitally. These Arogya Mandirs are expected to operate from 10 am to 7 pm daily, ensuring that residents can access healthcare services throughout the day. This initiative is set to be executed within the year, with MLAs tasked with identifying locations for these centers in their respective constituencies.
“Delhi’s healthcare sector is about to witness a new direction,” Gupta said, adding that public representatives and district magistrates had been directed to identify suitable government sites for these Arogya Mandirs within the week.
“This is the beginning of a new chapter in Delhi’s healthcare system, and there will be no further delays. We are moving forward with concrete policies and on-ground implementation,” she asserted.
With these measures, the Delhi Government is reaffirming its vision for a “Healthy Delhi, Empowered Delhi”, ensuring accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare for all residents. The government has also committed to the swift implementation of the Ayushman Bharat scheme, bringing healthcare services closer to the people.
Delhi