Agartala, Oct 01: Under Ayushman Bharat- Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), a total of 3,43,985 people from Tripura have so far availed free medical benefits, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha said on Tuesday.

Launched on September 23, 2018, the AB-PMJAY, the world’s largest universal health coverage scheme introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, completed its 6th year in addressing the medical needs of the people.

To celebrate the 6th anniversary of AB-PMJAY and 3rd anniversary of Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, the state-level programme was organized at Prajna Bhavan.

Addressing the programme, the Chief Minister said, under this scheme, so far, a total of 3,43,985 beneficiaries of Tripura have received free treatment at various hospitals in and outside the state, and a total claim amounting to Rs. 195.51 Crore has been settled. 

He said, ABPMJAY ensures health coverage of Rs. 5 lakh per family per year across the country. More than 15,35,364 beneficiaries in Tripura have already been issued Ayushman Cards.

He also highlighted that to ensure universal health coverage for the families not covered under the AB-PMJAY, the state government had launched Chief Minister Jan Arogya Yojana in line with AB-PMJAY on February 15 last.

A total of 4,48,709 beneficiaries have so far availed Ayushman Cards under CMJAY. More than 12,000 beneficiaries have already availed the benefits under CMJAY, with settlement of claims amounting to over Rs. 2.20 crore, he noted.

The Chief Minister also said, the present state government has been working to improve health services and infrastructures. He said, as a result of the continuous efforts, improved medical facilities have been ensured in all primary health centres, community health centres and district hospitals. He mentioned that a total of 21,51,949 ABHA cards have been issued in the state so far. 

In the event, Atal Bihari Vajpayee Regional Cancer Centre, Agartala has been awarded as best hospital in state category empanelled under Ayushman Bharat Yojana. Besides, Dhalai district hospital, Bishalgarh sub-divisional hospital, Manubazar rural hospital and RUpaichari primary health centre have also been awarded.

West Tripura district has been awarded as best district in generating CMJAY cards. 

Secretary to the Health department Kiran Gitte, Director of Medical Education Dr. HP Sharma, Additional Secretary Rajib Dutta, Mission Director of National Health Mission, Tripura- Samit Roy Chowdhury, DIG of State Police Ipper Monchak, and other dignitaries were also present.