Punjab Government Announces January 22 Launch for Major Health Insurance Scheme
Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh made a significant announcement on Monday. The state government will formally roll out its Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna on January 22. This ambitious scheme promises cashless medical treatment coverage of up to Rs 10 lakh for every family in Punjab.
Free Health Cards with Door-to-Door Delivery
Minister Balbir Singh emphasized the completely free nature of the program during a press conference at the AAP office in Chandigarh. The government itself will reach every household across the state. Health cards will be issued free of cost and delivered directly to people's doors.
"The scheme fulfills the commitment made by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal," stated Balbir Singh. "We aim to ensure quality healthcare for every citizen without placing any financial burden on them."
Zero Tolerance for Fraud and Illegal Charges
The Health Minister issued a strong warning against any fraudulent activities related to the scheme. He declared strict legal action against anyone creating fake health cards or charging money in the name of the program.
Balbir Singh revealed that the government has already taken action in response to complaints from Muktsar and Mansa districts. Some individuals were reportedly charging Rs 50 illegally for health card preparation. The authorities have responded decisively:
- The accused individuals have been suspended
- Their licenses have been cancelled
- FIRs have been registered against them
"Such practices will not be tolerated under any circumstances," the Minister asserted firmly.
Simple Enrollment Process for Citizens
The Health Minister explained the straightforward enrollment procedure for residents:
- Youth club volunteers will visit households door-to-door to distribute tokens
- Citizens must take these tokens to designated centers
- They need to bring their Aadhaar card and voter ID for verification
- Health cards will be issued completely free of charge
The entire cost of the scheme, from card preparation to medical treatment, will be borne by the government. No individual or agency is permitted to charge even a single rupee at any stage of the process.
Universal Coverage for Punjab Families
This universal healthcare initiative will extend to all 65 lakh families across Punjab. Eligibility requires only two documents: an Aadhaar card and a voter card. Any resident possessing both documents can avail the scheme's benefits.
Reiterating the government's commitment, Balbir Singh emphasized the Mann administration's dedication to transparent, people-centric healthcare. He warned that strict action would continue against anyone attempting to cheat citizens through welfare schemes.
The January 22 launch marks a major step toward fulfilling the government's promise of accessible healthcare for all Punjab residents.