New Delhi/Kolkata, June 9: In a major boost to healthcare access and financial protection, West Bengal has officially become the 36th State/Union Territory to implement the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), bringing millions of residents under the ambit of India’s flagship public health insurance programme.
The rollout marks a significant milestone in the country’s journey toward universal healthcare coverage and is expected to strengthen access to quality medical treatment for eligible families across the state. Under the scheme, beneficiaries can receive cashless treatment for secondary and tertiary healthcare services at a vast network of empanelled hospitals across India.
With West Bengal joining the programme, nearly six crore residents are expected to benefit from enhanced health coverage and greater financial security against rising medical expenses. Eligible families will be able to access health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh annually, reducing the burden of out-of-pocket healthcare costs.
The implementation follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the National Health Authority and the Government of West Bengal, paving the way for the integration of beneficiaries into the national healthcare ecosystem. The move also enables residents to access treatment beyond state boundaries through PM-JAY’s nationwide hospital network.
Officials believe the initiative will strengthen healthcare delivery, improve treatment accessibility, and provide a critical safety net for vulnerable families. The scheme’s portability feature is expected to particularly benefit migrant workers, students, and patients seeking specialized treatment outside the state.
The inclusion of West Bengal further expands the reach of Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, reinforcing the government’s vision of ensuring affordable and equitable healthcare for citizens across the country. As healthcare remains a key development priority, the rollout is expected to contribute significantly to improving health outcomes and reducing financial hardship associated with medical emergencies.