PUNJAB NEWS : Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday described the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna as a major stride toward achieving universal healthcare, enabling people to receive quality treatment without having to spend a single rupee.
Speaking at the launch event of the scheme, Kejriwal remarked that such an initiative should have been implemented five decades ago, but it was never a priority for past governments. He emphasized that AAP has consistently focused on delivering quality healthcare and education to empower citizens. Criticizing those who claim to make India a Vishwaguru (global leader), he said such basic needs were long neglected, hindering the nation’s progress.
Referencing countries like Singapore, Japan, and Germany, Kejriwal said their advancements were due to early investments in health and education. He stressed that AAP’s current efforts represent genuine nation-building. Citing an example, he highlighted Punjab’s jump from 17th to 1st position in the Government of India’s National Achievement Survey in education, achieved through consistent efforts by the state government.
Kejriwal praised Punjab’s rapid progress under the leadership of CM Bhagwant Mann, stating that the state is now performing exceptionally well in areas such as health, education, and infrastructure. He noted that 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics are already functional, offering free treatment, with 200 more set to open soon. He added that the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna will officially roll out on October 2, with enrollment camps being organized for residents.
Calling the scheme a bold step toward universal health access, Kejriwal announced that every household in Punjab will now be eligible for cashless treatment up to ₹10 lakh. He congratulated the people, saying that only an honest and transparent government can truly prioritize the welfare of the common citizen. He also highlighted that this achievement comes without imposing any new taxes—made possible by curbing public fund leakages and utilizing resources for people’s welfare.
Describing the day as historic for Punjab’s healthcare sector, Kejriwal stated that the entire population of 3 crore is now covered under this scheme, making Punjab the first state in the country to ensure cashless treatment up to ₹10 lakh for every resident. Previously, the coverage was limited to ₹5 lakh for select families, but now it is expanded to all, regardless of income.
He said Punjab has now set a precedent for the entire nation by offering not just free healthcare, but also free education, electricity, and bus services. Inspired by the principle of Sarbat da Bhala (welfare of all), the scheme ensures equal access to healthcare for all citizens—whether government employees, pensioners, or the general public—without any income restrictions.
Kejriwal further added that health cards can be generated from Seva Kendras, Common Service Centers (CSCs), or even online through Aadhaar or Voter ID. Beneficiaries will be able to receive free treatment at government hospitals and empanelled private hospitals across the state. He envisioned a future where no one in Punjab will have to forgo treatment due to lack of money and assured that the state government will continue launching more pro-people and development-focused programs.