Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday announced the launch of Punjab’s universal health insurance scheme. Rs 10 lakh health cover rollout starts in Tarn Taran and Barnala from Tuesday. Mann described the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana as a historic step toward affordable healthcare for every family in the state.
The scheme will provide cashless treatment for 2,000 ailments. Each family can claim up to ₹10 lakh. Mann said the registration process will begin immediately in Tarn Taran, where a bypoll is due following the demise of AAP MLA Dr Kashmir Singh, and in Barnala. He described the launch as a pilot project and said the registration will complete within 10–12 days.
The government will conduct 128 registration camps in each district to ensure smooth enrolment. Mann also highlighted improvements in Punjab’s healthcare system. He said medicine availability in government hospitals has risen from 30% to nearly 100%. The number of people accessing primary government health services has grown from 34 lakh to 1.08 crore.
Mann said Punjab is now the first state in India to offer free universal health insurance of up to ₹10 lakh. He added that the scheme will strengthen public health and reduce out-of-pocket expenses for families.
While discussing challenges, Mann criticised the SGPC for denying land at Mastuana Sahib for a medical college. He accused the Sikh body of acting under the influence of the Badal family.
The Rs 10 lakh health cover rollout aims to improve healthcare access, promote preventive care, and support families in emergencies. Citizens can register at government camps, health centres, and online portals to avail of the benefits.
