New Delhi – Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Ayushman Bharat as a game-changer in India’s healthcare system, declaring that the scheme has brought a “revolution in public healthcare” by making quality medical treatment accessible to millions of poor and vulnerable families.
In an address marking the anniversary of the flagship program, Modi said Ayushman Bharat has transformed the way healthcare is delivered in the country. “For decades, healthcare was a privilege for a few. Today, through Ayushman Bharat, crores of families can enter hospitals with dignity, without fear of financial ruin. This is not just a scheme, it is a social revolution,” he told a gathering in New Delhi.
Launched in 2018, Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) – provides health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization. According to government data, over 6 crore hospital admissions have been covered under the scheme so far, with treatments ranging from surgeries to critical care.
The Prime Minister highlighted stories of beneficiaries from rural and urban areas alike, saying the initiative has saved countless lives and prevented families from falling into poverty due to medical expenses. “Whether it is cancer treatment, heart surgery, or kidney dialysis, Ayushman Bharat ensures that the poor have the same right to treatment as the rich,” Modi said.
He also pointed to the program’s impact on strengthening healthcare infrastructure, with more hospitals empaneled and new facilities added in underserved regions. Officials say the digital backbone of the scheme has streamlined processes, reduced corruption, and ensured transparency in claims.
Experts view Ayushman Bharat as one of the world’s largest government-funded healthcare programs, but challenges remain. Critics note issues like uneven access in remote areas and gaps in awareness among beneficiaries. Still, the government maintains that ongoing reforms will expand coverage and improve delivery.
Modi concluded his address by framing the scheme as central to India’s broader goal of building a self-reliant and inclusive society. “When the poor are healthy, the nation is stronger. Ayushman Bharat is not just about hospitals and insurance – it is about hope, dignity, and a healthier future for every Indian,” he said.
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