The Delhi High Court has directed the state government to respond to a petition seeking the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) in Delhi. The scheme is aimed at providing health insurance coverage to economically disadvantaged individuals across the country.
Background:
The petitioners argued that the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY scheme in Delhi would greatly benefit the underprivileged sections of society by offering them affordable healthcare. The petition seeks to address the lack of access to the benefits of the scheme, which has been rolled out in many other states.
Court’s Rationale:
The Delhi High Court noted that the implementation of health insurance schemes like PM-JAY is crucial for ensuring better healthcare access for economically weaker sections. The bench has sought the state’s response on the matter and asked for an update on the progress of the scheme’s rollout in the national capital.
Existing Measures:
While PM-JAY has been implemented in various states, its full coverage and benefits are still not available in some regions, including Delhi. The court’s intervention is aimed at ensuring that the benefits of the scheme reach all eligible beneficiaries.
Conclusion:
The Delhi High Court’s directive highlights the importance of implementing national health schemes like Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY in urban areas. The court’s decision is expected to push for greater accountability and accelerate the rollout of this crucial healthcare initiative in Delhi.