Since the launch of Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojna (AB-PMJAY) on September 23 last year, more than 39 lakh people save Rs. 12,000 crore as the government offering free-of-cost treatment, the health minister said on Wednesday. To generate awareness about the scheme September 23 will be celebrated as ‘Ayushman Bharat Diwas’ on the grounds several events are being planned across the country to celebrate the first anniversary of the scheme.

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The go-ahead to the preparations for the first anniversary of the scheme had been given by Vardhan.

Reviewing the implementation of the scheme Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan said, “I am pleased to know that more than 39 lakh people have availed cashless treatment worth over Rs 6,100 crore for serious illnesses since the launch of AB-PMJAY. This has resulted in savings of Rs 12,000 crore to the beneficiary families.”

Vardhan, while appreciating the progress ( More than 39 lakh people save Rs 12,000 crore under Ayushman Bharat) of the scheme so far stressed upon maintaining the momentum in its implementation across the country and recommend states to put in greater strength and efficiency in boosting up its reach and providing seamless health services to the last mile.

He accentuated, “The Prime Minister has envisioned the scheme for the health and wellness of the poorest and most vulnerable of the people. We have to ensure that the vision of our beloved and inspirational Prime Minister is fulfilled.”

At the review meeting, newly designed online system to help members of the general public to register their grievances and get assisted support was also launched by Vardhan. The newly designed grievance management portal of AB-PMJAY

The time period of 15-30 September will be marked as the ‘Ayushman Bharat Pakhwara’ accompanied by several activities in the states and celebrate this gift of health to the nation.

In addition to it, the mega national event ‘Gyan Sangam’ will be organized from September 29-30 to highlight the progress (like more than 39 lakh people save Rs 12,000 crore and other) and achievements of the scheme.

The Union Health Minister also evaluated the cybersecurity and privacy mechanisms set up at the National Health Authority, the apex body implementing the scheme to protect the beneficiary data.

Vardhan stressed on the highest standards of security and privacy, and zero tolerance for corruption and fraud to be the foundation of the culture of AB-PMJAY.

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