Punjab Launches Landmark ₹10 Lakh Cashless Health Scheme: A First in India
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, along with AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal, on Tuesday launched the Mukh Mantri Sehat Beema Yojna, making Punjab the first state in India to offer ₹10 lakh cashless treatment to every resident.
A New Chapter in Public Healthcare
Speaking at the launch event, CM Mann said the initiative marks a historic health revolution in the state. “Thousands of families across Punjab are battling serious health issues but cannot afford treatment due to high medical costs. In many cases, people are forced to sell land or homes just to survive,” he noted, blaming past governments for ignoring the health needs of the common man.
He emphasized that under this new scheme, all state residents will be entitled to free treatment up to ₹10 lakh in empanelled government and private hospitals, without any out-of-pocket expenses.
Health with Dignity: ‘No More Selling Land to Afford Treatment’
The Chief Minister assured that cards will be issued free of cost, with minimal formalities. “No one will need to spend a single rupee on serious treatments anymore,” he said. In contrast, he criticized the Centre’s recent Aadhaar-linked birth proof requirement, calling it insensitive to senior citizens who have voted for decades.
‘Development, Not Division’: Mann Praises AAP’s Focus
CM Mann hailed Arvind Kejriwal’s leadership for bringing health, education, electricity, water, and infrastructure to the forefront of national discourse. “While other parties peddle hate and division, AAP has redefined politics by prioritizing basic services,” he said.
Punjab’s Contribution, Centre’s Neglect
The Chief Minister also addressed what he described as “unfair targeting” of Punjabis. Citing the case of Diljit Dosanjh’s film being banned despite being made before the Pahalgam attack, he accused the central government of double standards. “Punjab has always stood at the frontline—feeding the nation and defending its borders—yet faces undue scrutiny,” Mann asserted.
He further slammed the BJP over ‘Operation Sindoor’, calling it “political drama” and a “mockery of public sentiment.” He stated that while Punjab bore the brunt of border tensions with Pakistan, Delhi chose theatrics over real support.
Kejriwal: A Vision for India’s Future
Describing Arvind Kejriwal as a “learned reformer,” CM Mann said India needs a leader like him to eliminate corruption and restore dignity in governance. “When Kejriwal leads this country, we’ll not only solve our problems but lead the world,” he said, predicting a national shift in leadership.
Cracking Down on Crime and Corruption
Referring to Punjab’s past struggles with drug trafficking and organized crime, CM Mann promised to hold the culprits accountable, including politicians who enabled it. “The so-called ‘Jarnails’ who lit the pyres of Punjab’s youth will face justice,” he declared.
He noted that many of these powerful figures, once known for posing with their curled moustaches, are now behind bars. “They ruined generations, and now they will pay for it,” he said firmly.
Commitment to Public Health
Earlier in the event, Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh welcomed dignitaries and highlighted the state’s bold reforms in healthcare, calling the new scheme a milestone in public welfare.