Punjab Introduces Universal Cashless Health Cover
The Punjab government has rolled out Mukhya Mantri Sehat Yojana , a landmark healthcare initiative that promises free and cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh per family . The scheme is designed to ensure that every resident of Punjab can access quality healthcare without the burden of hospital expenses, marking a decisive shift towards universal health coverage in the state.
The programme was formally launched in Mohali by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann in the presence of AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal , who described it as a transformative step in Punjab’s social welfare framework.
Who Is Covered Under the Scheme
The scheme has a truly universal scope. It covers all 65 lakh families of Punjab, translating to benefits for nearly three crore residents . Eligibility is simple and inclusive—any Punjab resident possessing an Aadhaar card or Voter ID can avail the benefits. There is no income ceiling , making it distinct from earlier targeted or poverty-linked health insurance schemes.
₹10 Lakh Cashless Treatment Every Year
Each family is entitled to cashless medical treatment worth up to ₹10 lakh per year . Treatment can be availed at government hospitals as well as empanelled private hospitals , ensuring wider choice and accessibility. Patients are not required to make upfront payments for approved procedures, significantly reducing out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure.
Wide Coverage of Medical Procedures
The scheme offers an extensive package of care, covering over 2,350 treatment packages . These include high-cost and specialised procedures across multiple disciplines such as cardiology, oncology, neurology, nephrology, orthopaedics, urology, and general medicine. By including expensive tertiary care, the scheme aims to prevent medical costs from pushing families into debt.
Hospital Network and Health Cards
Currently, around 850 government and private hospitals across Punjab have been empanelled under the scheme, with plans to expand the network further, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. To facilitate access, health cards will be issued to all eligible families through facilitation centres, Common Service Centres, online platforms, and door-to-door assistance with the help of youth volunteers.
Political and Social Significance
Addressing the launch, Arvind Kejriwal termed the scheme historic, stating that Punjab has emerged as a state providing free healthcare alongside free education, electricity, and public transport for women. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann emphasised that healthcare must be treated as a basic right , not a privilege, and clarified that even government employees and pensioners are covered.
Imporatnt Facts for Exams
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Mukhya Mantri Sehat Yojana provides ₹10 lakh cashless health cover per family
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The scheme covers all residents of Punjab without any income limit
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Both government and empanelled private hospitals are included
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Over 2,350 treatment packages are covered
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Health cards are issued for availing scheme benefits
Month: Current Affairs - January 24, 2026
Category: Health & Human Development