Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday launched a groundbreaking healthcare initiative, marking a new chapter in the state’s health sector. With the introduction of the Mukh Mantri Sehat Beema Yojna, Punjab has become the first state in India to offer cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh for all residents.
During the launch event, CM Bhagwant Mann highlighted how numerous families in Punjab are unable to access quality healthcare due to high treatment costs. He said that people often abandon treatment or are forced to sell their land or homes to afford it, blaming past governments for neglecting this critical issue.
With this new scheme, Mann assured that every resident will now be eligible for free treatment up to ₹10 lakh at empanelled hospitals across Punjab, offering significant relief to the public. He emphasized that no citizen would need to pay from their pocket for serious medical treatments anymore.
He also praised Arvind Kejriwal for bringing vital issues such as health, education, electricity, water, and infrastructure to the forefront of national politics. Mann stated these are the top five priorities of his government and criticized traditional parties for promoting hatred and divisive politics, whereas AAP is focused on people-centric governance.
Mann pointed out that the health card under this scheme would be issued free of cost and without complicated formalities, unlike other government procedures in the country. Taking a dig at the Centre, he criticized the demand for proof of birth from long-time voters and recalled the trauma faced by Punjabis during the Partition.
Referring to recent events, the CM condemned the targeting of Punjabis by so-called nationalists. He cited the banning of actor Diljit Dosanjh’s film—which was made before the Pahalgam attack—as unjust and discriminatory. He reminded the audience that Punjabis have played a crucial role in ensuring India’s food security and protecting its borders.
Commenting on the recent Indo-Pak tensions, Mann criticized the Centre’s handling of Operation Sindoor, calling it political theatre. He said sending sindoor to every household was meaningless and mocked public sentiment. According to him, such actions show how out of touch the ruling party is with real issues, and he expressed confidence that voters will reject such theatrics.
Calling Arvind Kejriwal a visionary leader, Mann said Kejriwal is the solution to the country’s problems. He declared that only under Kejriwal’s leadership can India truly progress and overcome its social challenges, and predicted that people are ready to unseat the current Prime Minister.
He reminded the audience that Punjab has a proud legacy of producing spiritual leaders, martyrs, sports icons, and military heroes. However, due to the negligence of earlier regimes, the state had become a haven for criminals and drug smugglers. Mann vowed that his government is determined to eliminate these anti-national elements and restore the state’s honour.
Reaffirming his stand, Mann said that the “Jarnails” who led Punjab’s youth to destruction will be held accountable. He noted that many of these arrogant leaders, once fond of flaunting their power, are now behind bars. He assured that his government will ensure justice by giving them exemplary punishment for their crimes.
Earlier, Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh welcomed attendees and highlighted the state government’s transformative steps in the healthcare sector.