Aizawl: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma has launched the Mizoram Universal Healthcare Scheme, which will come into effect in April this year. The launch event took place at the Assembly Annexe Conference Hall during the recess of the Assembly Session.
In his inaugural speech, the Chief Minister emphasized that the Mizoram Universal Healthcare Scheme aims to replace previous healthcare schemes to ensure that empanelled hospitals no longer face difficulties while providing comprehensive coverage and protection for citizens.
The scheme was introduced following a thorough evaluation of the state’s healthcare progress over the past five years. Despite financial constraints, the government has prioritised its implementation, with banks assuring their full cooperation, making the scheme viable.
Initially, the scheme was planned with funding from an Asian Development Bank (ADB) loan, and the process for securing this funding is ongoing. However, the Chief Minister assured that even if the ADB loan does not materialise, the state government remains confident in successfully implementing the scheme. As the scheme is set to commence in April, the government has allocated Rs 14.50 crore this month to settle outstanding healthcare bills.
Highlighting the significance of the scheme, the Chief Minister stated that development and the well-being of the people are inseparable, and a robust healthcare system is crucial for public welfare. He expressed confidence that the people of Mizoram would welcome the initiative.
To ensure efficiency, the scheme will be implemented online and in a paperless manner. It will also function as a cashless system, eliminating the need for individuals to make out-of-pocket payments.
The Mizoram Universal Healthcare Scheme covers all government employees, civil pensioners, the general public, and individuals possessing Golden Cards under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY).
Citizens can enroll in the scheme during the scheduled registration period, with an annual registration fee of Rs. 2,500 per family. The scheme provides healthcare coverage of up to Rs. 5,00,000. Government employees and civil pensioners will contribute through deductions from their monthly income.
Following his speech, the Chief Minister engaged with the media, addressing queries about the Mizoram Universal Healthcare Scheme.
The event was chaired by H. Lalengmawia, Commissioner & Secretary, and was attended by Speaker Lalbiakzama, Home Minister K. Sapdanga, Health & Family Welfare Minister Lalrinpuii, other Ministers, MLAs, key officials, and members of the press.
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