Odisha to Roll Out Ayushman Bharat Scheme in Two Weeks, Says CM Mohan Charan Majhi

Over 3.5 Crore People in Odisha to Benefit from Nationwide Healthcare Network​

Bhubaneswar, April 1 – Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday announced that the state government will implement the Ayushman Bharat–Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) within the next two weeks, aiming to expand healthcare access to millions of residents.

The announcement was made during the Odisha Dibasa celebrations held in Cuttack district.

Launch Delayed from April 1; No Specific Reason Cited​

Originally scheduled to launch on April 1 alongside the Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana, the rollout has been slightly delayed. While Chief Minister Majhi did not disclose the reason for the rescheduling, he assured the public that the scheme will be in place within a fortnight.

Scheme to Cover 3.52 Crore Odisha Residents​

According to Majhi, the Ayushman Bharat scheme is expected to provide healthcare coverage to approximately 3.52 crore people across Odisha. The initiative is set to be a game-changer for the state's healthcare system by extending access to cashless treatment at over 29,000 hospitals nationwide.

This marks a significant expansion compared to the previous Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (BSKY), which covered only around 900 hospitals, he noted.

Nationwide Hospital Access for Odisha Citizens​

Under AB-PMJAY, beneficiaries from Odisha will not only have access to medical facilities within the state but can also receive specialized treatment in hospitals outside Odisha. This nationwide network is especially crucial for patients requiring advanced or specialized care not available locally.

Economic and Rural Upliftment Through Healthcare​

Highlighting the inclusive nature of the scheme, Majhi said it would particularly benefit economically weaker sections, rural populations, and others who struggle to afford high medical costs. He also criticized the previous BJD-led government for opting out of implementing Ayushman Bharat, stating that this move had denied people access to broader healthcare benefits.