After resolving a prolonged dispute with the central government over clinic branding, the Punjab government has announced the establishment of 208 additional urban Ayushman Arogya Kendras (AAKs) across the state. This expansion comes in response to the success of the existing 242 urban AAKs, which have significantly reduced out-of-pocket healthcare costs for residents by offering free consultations, 80 types of medicines, and 38 diagnostic tests.
Focus on Accessibility and Infrastructure
To ensure equitable access, the state’s health department has directed deputy commissioners and civil surgeons to identify buildings that meet prescribed infrastructure standards. Each new facility must include a doctor’s room, pharmacist’s room, waiting areas, reception, and toilet facilities. Furthermore, officials must maintain a 1–3 km buffer between existing health centers and the new ones to avoid overlap and ensure wider coverage. Authorities must submit their site reports by May 12.
City-Wise Distribution of New Centres
The 208 new centres will be distributed across major cities as follows:
- Ludhiana – 42 centres
- Jalandhar – 26 centres
- Amritsar – 23 centres
- Gurdaspur – 20 centres
- Sangrur – 9 centres
- Bathinda, Fazilka, Muktsar, and Pathankot – 8 centres each
Rebranding Dispute Finally Resolved
As reported by TOI, this healthcare expansion follows the resolution of a two-year-long conflict between the Punjab government and the Union health ministry. The disagreement stemmed from Punjab’s decision to rename the Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres as Aam Aadmi Clinics (AACs). The move triggered the withholding of Rs 478 crore in National Health Mission (NHM) funds over two financial years.
In November 2024, both sides reached a compromise to rename the clinics as Ayushman Arogya Kendras, in line with central guidelines. By January 2025, the rebranding was completed, including wall painting, signage installation, and application of standard logo and design elements.
Funding Restored After Alignment with Centre
Due to the branding conflict, the Centre suspended Rs 112 crore in NHM funds for 2022–23 and Rs 366.41 crore for 2023–24. With the agreement now in place and the rebranding completed. The state is expected to receive the previously stalled central allocation of Rs 457.90 crore. It enables it to move forward with strengthening primary healthcare infrastructure.
Commitment to Strengthen Public Health
The Punjab government is expanding the Ayushman Arogya Kendras network. This move aims to improve access, affordability, and equity in urban healthcare delivery. With strong cooperation between state and central authorities now restored. The state is ready to implement a more robust and people-centric healthcare model.