World's largest healthcare scheme 'Ayushman Bharat' to begin from Jharkhand on September 23rd

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das has described the launch of the Ayushman Bharat healthcare scheme from Ranchi on September 23, 2018, as a matter of great pride and good fortune for the state.

Reacting to the announcement during his visit to China, Das said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision to launch the country's ambitious healthcare programme from Jharkhand would mark a historic moment for the people of the state.

“Together with the whole country, the people of Jharkhand are eagerly waiting for this historic moment,” the Chief Minister said.

The launch event will also mark the beginning of several important health and development initiatives in Jharkhand. The foundation stones for new medical colleges in Koderma and Chaibasa are scheduled to be laid, which is expected to strengthen medical education and healthcare infrastructure in the state.

A foundation stone will also be laid for the construction of a Tertiary Care Cancer Centre in Ranchi. The facility is expected to improve access to specialised cancer treatment and reduce the need for patients from Jharkhand to travel to other states for advanced care.

In addition to healthcare projects, the programme will include initiatives related to Jharkhand's history and heritage. These include the restoration of Birsa Munda Jail and the restoration and renovation of the Birsa Munda Museum.

The event will also see the distribution of Ayushman Bharat Golden Records, or e-cards, to beneficiaries. The cards will enable eligible families to access benefits under the healthcare scheme.

The launch from Ranchi was being projected by the state government as an important milestone for Jharkhand, combining the rollout of a major national health initiative with the launch of projects aimed at expanding medical infrastructure and preserving the state's historical heritage.