Ayushman Bharat health scheme implementation in India

The Ayushman Bharat (Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana) health insurance scheme has seen continued expansion and implementation across India.

In July 2026, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan highlighted the scheme’s impact, noting that approximately 440 million people receive health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh. He also emphasized the importance of digitizing health services and supporting senior citizens through related programs.

By August 2026, the scheme was officially launched in West Bengal, targeting coverage for approximately 6 crore individuals from 1.5 crore families. The rollout includes 1,903 hospitals—both government and private—under initial 90-day agreements. While the state’s existing ‘Swasthya Sathi’ scheme remains operational for now, it is expected to be phased out gradually as Ayushman Bharat is implemented.

Following the launch event at Netaji Indoor Stadium, further details emerged regarding the West Bengal rollout. The scheme aims to provide cashless medical coverage for 1,950 types of diseases, including complex procedures like knee and hip replacements. Special provisions have been established for senior citizens aged 70 and above, who are eligible regardless of income level.

To supplement the initiative, the state is introducing ‘Amrit Pharmacies’ in 10 government hospitals to offer medicines at discounts ranging from 50% to 80%. Additionally, the ‘Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme’ will be utilized to cover residents who do not meet the eligibility criteria for Ayushman Bharat.