Mon Dec 02 09:26:59 UTC 2024: ## Delhi AAP Government Accused of Blocking Ayushman Bharat Scheme

**NEW DELHI, December 2, 2024** – Union Minister of Labour and Employment Mansukh Mandaviya today criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi for allegedly preventing residents from accessing the central government’s Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme. Mandaviya stated that the AAP government is obstructing the scheme’s benefits from reaching citizens belonging to the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) and those aged 70 and above.

The Minister accused the AAP of prioritizing liquor sales over the health of Delhi’s citizens, highlighting the government’s repeated refusal to join the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) despite multiple requests from the Health Ministry. He noted that the Delhi High Court has sought the AAP government’s response to a petition filed by BJP MPs demanding the scheme’s implementation in Delhi.

Mandaviya also condemned similar actions by the West Bengal government, expressing disappointment that political differences were being prioritized over public welfare. He pointed out the recent expansion of AB-PMJAY coverage to include all citizens over 70, regardless of income.

Furthermore, the Minister revealed that the Punjab government has agreed to revert its renaming of Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centers to the original name after initially branding them as “Aam Aadmi Clinics,” a move which violated an agreement with the Union Health Ministry.

Mandaviya also addressed concerns regarding the scheme’s implementation, stating that while the ₹5 lakh insurance limit remains unchanged, measures are in place to monitor costs and prevent overcharging. He cited the reduction in unnecessary Cesarean sections as an example of the government’s proactive approach to scheme optimization.

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