By The Sampadak Express
Odisha has unveiled a landmark unified health insurance scheme aimed at delivering quality healthcare to 3.5 crore citizens across the state. Union Health Minister JP Nadda officially launched the initiative on Friday at Bali Jatra Ground in Cuttack, alongside top state leaders.
The scheme brings together the Centre’s Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) and the state-run Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY), streamlining healthcare access under a single Unified Ayushman Card.
Key Highlights:
Widespread Coverage: The scheme will benefit 1.03 crore families, providing each with Rs 5 lakh annual health coverage. Women in every family will receive an additional Rs 5 lakh, taking total potential coverage up to Rs 10 lakh per family.
National Access: Beneficiaries can avail of cashless treatment at over 29,000 empanelled hospitals across India — a major leap from the earlier 900-hospital network under BSKY.
Senior Citizen Benefits: A special Ayushman Vay Vandana Card has been introduced for citizens aged 70 and above, ensuring Rs 5 lakh health coverage for all, irrespective of income or social background. Families with at least one senior citizen will receive total coverage of Rs 15 lakh.
Strong Financial Backing: The state cabinet has approved a budget of Rs 27,019 crore over five years to ensure the scheme’s smooth implementation and sustainability.
The launch event was attended by several key leaders including Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Deputy CMs KV Singh Deo and Pravati Parida, and State Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling.
This unified health initiative marks a significant step toward universal healthcare in Odisha, bridging both central and state resources for maximum public benefit.
