Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a series of transformative development projects worth nearly ₹12,850 crore on Tuesday, marking a significant push in healthcare and infrastructure. Among the initiatives was the expansion of the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme to cover all senior citizens aged 70 and above, granting them free access to essential healthcare services under the government’s flagship program.
During the announcement, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the impressive progress India has achieved in the healthcare sector over the past decade, contrasting it with the slower pace of development in previous decades. He emphasized his commitment to building an inclusive healthcare system, especially for the elderly, who will now benefit from broader healthcare access.
The Prime Minister also expressed his concern that elderly citizens in Delhi and West Bengal may be unable to benefit from Ayushman Bharat due to the governments in these states choosing not to participate in the scheme. “I sincerely apologize to the elderly aged 70 and above in Delhi and West Bengal,” Modi said. “Political interests should not overshadow the need to provide essential healthcare to our elderly citizens.” His message highlighted the critical importance of extending healthcare coverage across all regions, irrespective of political alignments.
In addition to expanding Ayushman Bharat, Modi also emphasized the government’s focus on creating a future-ready system for India’s youth, fostering opportunities to help them realize their aspirations. As a gesture of unity and cultural pride, Modi declared this Diwali will be historic, as it will be the first in 500 years where thousands of lamps will be lit in the newly constructed Ram temple in Ayodhya.
A notable highlight of the healthcare initiatives was a pioneering drone test conducted by AIIMS Mangalagiri, which transported a blood sample from Nutakki village over a 15-km distance—a demonstration of how innovative technology is enhancing healthcare delivery in India. This test is part of Modi’s healthcare project launched at the All India Institute of Ayurveda in New Delhi to commemorate the ninth Ayurveda Day.
Through these initiatives, Modi’s government aims to reinforce India’s healthcare system, elevate senior citizens’ quality of life, and continue its march toward a healthier, more inclusive India.
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