Union Health Minister and BJP National President J.P. Nadda will officially launch the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PMJAY) integrated with the Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY) in Cuttack on Friday. The launch marks a significant step in expanding healthcare access for Odisha’s citizens.
Fulfilling a Key Manifesto Promise
Odisha BJP President Manmohan Samal announced the development. He stated that implementing AB PMJAY was a key promise in the BJP’s election manifesto. He emphasized that the launch showcases the party’s commitment to delivering on its pledges.
During his two-day visit to Odisha, Nadda will also attend a three-day training programme for BJP MPs and MLAs in Puri, beginning Friday. He will address the gathering on Saturday, setting the tone for the party’s strategic direction in the state.
Top State Leadership to Attend Launch Event
According to government sources, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, along with Deputy Chief Ministers KV Singh Deo and Pravati Parida, and Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling, will join the grand launch event at Baliyatra Ground in Cuttack. Samal called the occasion “historic” for Odisha and the nation.
Over 3.46 Crore People to Benefit from Unified Health Scheme
As reported by TOI, the integration of AB PMJAY and GJAY will provide Rs 5 lakh health coverage per family to over 3.46 crore eligible individuals from 1.03 crore families across Odisha. The beneficiaries will gain access to treatment in approximately 29,000 hospitals nationwide.
In addition, J.P. Nadda will unveil the Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana, aimed at offering free health coverage for senior citizens above 70 years of age. Women under both schemes will receive an additional Rs 5 lakh coverage, significantly strengthening the healthcare safety net for vulnerable populations.
To mark the launch, the government has organized events at 13 locations across the state, where state ministers will oversee the roll-out of the schemes.
BJP Focuses on Training Legislators for Effective Governance
Meanwhile, the BJP is reinforcing its governance strategy by organizing a training programme for its MPs and MLAs in Puri. Party insiders revealed that the initiative aims to bridge the gap between administrative duties and party ideology, especially after the BJP’s historic win and first independent mandate in Odisha.
A senior party leader explained, “Public expectations are extremely high. Our legislators are under close scrutiny, and this training will prepare them to balance their legislative responsibilities with party principles.”
Equipping Leaders to Deliver on Promises
The training sessions will focus on public service delivery, constituency management, and effective governance mechanisms. This focus reflects the BJP’s understanding of its growing responsibility in the state. It also highlights the party’s intent to maintain transparency and accountability in governance.
Health reform and legislative preparedness are in the spotlight. The BJP is positioning itself to meet the aspirations of Odisha’s people through both policy and action.