Ayushman Bharat, Gopabandhu Arogya Yojana to be rolled by Feb end: Odisha Health Minister

Odisha Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling on Monday announced that the much-awaited Ayushman Bharat Yojana, which aims to provide health coverage to millions, will be operational in the state by February. This flagship initiative is expected to coincide with the introduction of the Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana, a regional programme designed to enhance healthcare accessibility.

“In the coming New Year, like I had said it earlier, we will definitely launch the Ayushman Bharat Yojana and Gopabandhu Arogya Yojana in this financial year. A central team had come to Odisha and we have informed them that the schemes should be implemented by February. These two schemes will go a long way in improving health conditions in Odisha,” Minister Mahaling informed.

In a significant move towards comprehensive healthcare, the Minister emphasised that the Ayushman Bharat Scheme will ensure no eligible beneficiary is excluded. A health card distribution drive is set to benefit approximately 3.50 crore residents in the state.

A central government team has already assessed the state’s preparedness for the scheme, ensuring that all necessary frameworks are in place for a smooth rollout.

He further said, “This will be a flagship programme and around 3.50 crore people out of the 4.30 crore people in Odisha will benefit from the two schemes. Efforts are on to bring a revolutionary change in health sector in the coming New Year 2025 in Odisha and cards will be individually given to the beneficiaries.”

“Our government’s New Year resolution would be to set up more Medical Colleges, nursing colleges and Digital Health Mission,” he further stated.

These steps are indicative of the government's commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure. The Minister's statement highlights the importance of these schemes in bridging the gap in healthcare access, particularly for rural and semi-urban class, said experts.