Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently declared that the Ayushman Bharat scheme, introduced in 2018, has sparked a profound revolution in public healthcare. He emphasized its success in offering vital financial protection and upholding the dignity of its countless beneficiaries.
This comprehensive medical insurance program provides an annual health cover of ₹5 lakh, extending its benefits to vulnerable populations and all senior citizens above the age of 70.
Reflecting on its seventh anniversary, Prime Minister Modi shared on social media, “Today we mark 7 years of Ayushman Bharat. This was an initiative that anticipated the needs of the future and focused on ensuring top-quality as well as affordable healthcare for people. Thanks to it, India is witnessing a revolution in public healthcare. It has ensured financial protection and dignity.”
He further elaborated, “India has shown how scale, compassion and technology can further human empowerment.”
An official government channel, frequently referenced by Mr. Modi, proudly stated that this flagship welfare program now covers more than 55 crore citizens, hailing it as the “world’s largest health assurance scheme.” To date, over 42 crore Ayushman cards have been distributed.
The scheme has significantly shifted government health expenditure from 29% to 48%, while dramatically reducing out-of-pocket expenses for individuals from 63% to 39%. The message underscored that “Millions of families saved from financial ruin during illness.”
The statement concluded by asserting that critical illness should not equate to financial devastation, noting that Ayushman Bharat has successfully protected over six crore families from falling into poverty each year.