J P Nadda Reveals Which 3 States Turned Their Backs on Ayushman Bharat – Insights on West Bengal’s Future!

Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda recently criticized the Mamata Banerjee government for allegedly blocking the Ayushman Bharat scheme in West Bengal. Speaking at a launch event for the scheme in Odisha, he suggested that it’s time for the BJP to take control in the state.

Nadda pointed out that several states have hindered central welfare initiatives. He noted that while Odisha has now adopted the scheme, West Bengal has not followed suit. His comments echoed a familiar narrative: when a state resists central initiatives, a “double-engine” government—where the BJP governs both state and central levels—can drive progress.

As the assembly elections in West Bengal approach in March-April 2026, these statements are likely aimed at rallying support for the BJP. The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) is a major health initiative intended to provide coverage to low-income families. In Odisha, around 3.5 crore people from a population of 4.5 crore will benefit from this program, alongside the state’s own health scheme, the Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY).

The political landscape is complex. Historically, Odisha’s government launched the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (BSKY) just before the central scheme in 2018, leading to a battle of narratives between state and central authorities. BSKY offered significant benefits, providing up to Rs 5 lakh for treatment, and eventually rebranded to GJAY under the current government. This indicates the state’s commitment to healthcare, leveraging its popularity even as it integrates with the national framework.

Because of this scheme’s success, many people from Odisha, including migrant workers, who were previously excluded from the central plan, can now access essential healthcare services. Furthermore, Nadda also introduced the Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana, which offers free treatment for those over 70, regardless of income.

This development reflects a trend towards improving healthcare access in India, particularly for marginalized communities. A recent survey by the National Sample Survey Office highlighted that more than 80% of families still struggle to afford healthcare. This underscores the importance of schemes like Ayushman Bharat in bridging gaps in access to medical services.

As the political stakes rise in West Bengal, healthcare will likely remain a key issue that could influence voter decisions in the upcoming elections. The focus on welfare schemes suggests that both local and central governments will continue to vie for the support of constituents through health-related initiatives, marking a significant phase in the region’s political discourse.



Source link

Ayushman Bharat, Mamata Banerjee, BJP, J P Nadda, Odisha, West Bengal, welfare schemes, Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana, Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana, Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana, BJP double-engine government, Modi government, health schemes, Odisha elections, Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, Bengal assembly election, Naveen Patnaik, health coverage, political slugfest.