The Office of the Chief Medical Officer, in collaboration with the District Implementation Unit (DIU) AB-PMJAY, concluded the Ayushman Pakhwada celebrations at the District Hospital Conference Hall on September 30. This event marked the 6th anniversary of the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). Shri Rahul Bhanudas Mali, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Zunheboto and Chairman of DIU AB-PMJAY/CMHIS, served as the chief guest.
In his address, Mali highlighted the scheme’s impact, stating that over 12 crore poor and vulnerable families benefit from it, translating to around 55 crore individuals nationwide. He emphasized the importance of public awareness regarding the scheme’s benefits and urged the health department to improve communication for better access to services.
Dr Antoly Suu, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, chaired the event and reiterated the significance of Ayushman Bharat, encouraging eligible beneficiaries to utilize the scheme’s cashless healthcare services at empanelled hospitals. She also called on community leaders to promote awareness and ensure registration among their constituents.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Shikato Sema, District Nodal Officer for AB-PMJAY, who pointed out that PM-JAY is the world’s largest government-financed health insurance scheme, offering Rs. 5 lakh coverage per family for hospitalization in public and private hospitals.
Several beneficiaries shared personal stories of how AB-PMJAY and the Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme (CMHIS) alleviated their financial burdens during medical treatment.
The program attracted a diverse audience, including representatives from the Sumi Hoho, local governing bodies, students, and medical staff. A special performance by Akavi Yeptho added to the event’s vibrancy, and Viboto P. Jakha, District Coordinator AB-PMJAY/CMHIS, delivered the vote of thanks.
Following the main event, a free medical health camp was organized specifically for sanitation workers, ensuring they received necessary medical care. Dr. Akaho Sema, Senior Surgeon, confirmed that these workers would benefit from free treatment, showcasing the hospital’s commitment to community health.
“In an exclusive interview, Dr Shikato Sema, Senior Surgeon and Nodal Officer for PMJAY, revealed that more than 700 patients have availed themselves of the benefits of the scheme, generating between 40-50 lakh,” an update from Tokavi K Zhimo said.
“This funding has played a crucial role in the renovation and development of the hospital, including the acquisition of essential medical equipment and medicines. He announced plans to introduce dialysis machines very soon,” it continued.
This event not only celebrated the achievements of the Ayushman Bharat scheme but also underscored the ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare accessibility and infrastructure in the Zunheboto district.