New Delhi, India — The Government of India has launched Ayushman Bharat 2.0, a revamped version of its flagship healthcare initiative, with a focus on improving healthcare accessibility in remote and underserved areas. Building on the successes of the original scheme, Ayushman Bharat 2.0 aims to address gaps in coverage and infrastructure, ensuring equitable healthcare for all citizens.

Key Features of Ayushman Bharat 2.0

1. Increased Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs): The program seeks to establish over 1,75,000 HWCsnationwide by 2025, prioritizing remote and rural areas. These centers provide comprehensive primary healthcare services, including maternal care, child health, and non-communicable disease management. As of 2024, 1,74,453 HWCs are operational across India. (static.pib.gov.in)
2. Expanded Health Coverage: Ayushman Bharat 2.0 includes new vulnerable groups, ensuring universal access to healthcare for more underserved populations. The initiative also integrates with PM-JAY (Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana), offering free treatment coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year.
3. Digital Integration: The scheme aligns with the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) to create digital health IDs for citizens, streamlining medical records and enabling seamless access to healthcare services through digital platforms. (mohfw.gov.in)

Impact on Remote Villages

The initiative prioritizes healthcare access for remote and rural regions by:

• Improving Infrastructure: Upgrading healthcare facilities and ensuring the availability of medical professionals in underserved areas.
• Preventive Healthcare Focus: Promoting health awareness and preventive care to reduce disease incidence.
• Outreach Programs: Conducting health camps and awareness drives in villages, addressing common healthcare challenges.

Economic and Social Impact

The program is expected to create jobs in the healthcare sector, from frontline workers to administrative staff. Additionally, it will reduce the financial burden on rural families by minimizing out-of-pocket healthcare expenses.

Looking Ahead

Ayushman Bharat 2.0 reflects India’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by ensuring that even the most remote villages have access to quality healthcare. With its holistic approach, the initiative aims to bridge the rural-urban healthcare divide and improve health outcomes across the country.

For updates, visit the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare at www.mohfw.gov.in.