CM Bhagwant Mann highlights major health reforms, ₹10 lakh insurance scheme, and rising public trust in state-run clinics
100 More Aam Aadmi Clinics to Open on March 28
Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has announced that 100 additional Aam Aadmi Clinics will become operational by March 28, further strengthening the state’s primary healthcare network. He also revealed that another 400 clinics are in the pipeline, signaling an aggressive expansion of accessible healthcare services across Punjab.
Mann stated that currently, 883 clinics are already functional, offering free medicines, diagnostic tests, and consultations. The outpatient footfall has crossed 5 crore visits, reflecting growing public trust in the initiative.
₹10 Lakh Universal Health Insurance Under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana
The Chief Minister highlighted the government’s flagship scheme, Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, which provides cashless treatment up to ₹10 lakh per family annually with no income cap.
So far:
- 25 lakh beneficiaries registered
- 1.60 lakh people received treatment
The government has allocated ₹1,200 crore for the current fiscal and ₹2,000 crore for 2026–27 to ensure smooth implementation.
Comparison with Ayushman Bharat Scheme
Mann drew comparisons with the Centre’s Ayushman Bharat, stating that while ₹9,300 crore has been earmarked nationally, several eligibility conditions limit its reach.
In contrast, Punjab’s scheme aims for universal coverage, benefiting over 3 crore residents with fewer restrictions.
900 Hospitals Empanelled, 2,300+ Treatments Covered
The state has empanelled around 900 government and private hospitals across Punjab and Chandigarh. The scheme covers 2,356 medical and surgical procedures, including:
- Cardiac care
- Cancer treatment
- Kidney and lung diseases
- Orthopaedics and general medicine
Government-fixed rates for nearly 2,600 treatments have been implemented to ensure affordability and transparency.
New Medical Colleges and Infrastructure Boost
Mann announced that:
- Tendering for medical colleges in Kapurthala and Hoshiarpur has been completed
- Land has been acquired for a new medical college in Malerkotla, which will be formally announced soon
Additionally, 22 critical care blocks with 50-bed capacity each are currently under construction.
AI-Based Screening and Preventive Healthcare Initiatives
Punjab has introduced AI-enabled screening devices for early detection of:
- Breast cancer
- Cervical cancer
- Vision-related issues
Preventive healthcare is also being promoted through the “CM Ki Yogshala” initiative, with:
- 8,000 daily yoga sessions
- Participation of nearly 2 lakh people
Recruitment Drive Strengthens Healthcare Workforce
Over the past four years, the government has recruited:
- 948 general doctors
- 627 specialist doctors
This accounts for 35% of the total government doctor workforce, addressing long-standing shortages in public health facilities.
Government Warns Against Misinformation
Mann raised concerns over misinformation campaigns targeting the scheme, alleging that certain groups are spreading false narratives to discourage beneficiaries. He assured that awareness materials and brochures will soon be available at Aam Aadmi Clinics to provide accurate information.
High Satisfaction Rate Among Patients
According to the Chief Minister, 94% of patients have expressed satisfaction with services at Aam Aadmi Clinics, which he described as “one of the best healthcare models in the country.”
