Daijiworld Media Network – Gaya

Gaya, Jun 7: Lalan Choudhary, a resident of Nalanda district, is undergoing free treatment at Magadh Medical College, Gaya, thanks to the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY). Sharing his experience, Choudhary said, “I am getting food, medicines and everything. I haven’t paid anything.” He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling the scheme a blessing for the poor.

Another patient, Kanch Kumari, who has been in the hospital for 12 days due to leg issues, echoed similar sentiments. “It’s all free under the Ayushman Card, which was made six months ago,” she said.

Dr. Rajaram Prasad, Chief Surgeon of Gaya district, said the scheme has made a remarkable difference. “Since 2018, 38,424 people have been treated under the scheme in the district, with Rs 38.62 cr spent,” he said. “In 2024-25 alone, 18,734 patients received treatment worth Rs 15 cr.”

Currently, 43 hospitals in Gaya district are covered under the scheme, including 16 private and 27 government facilities. Dr Prasad added that earlier people had to mortgage properties for treatment, but Ayushman Bharat has changed the healthcare landscape for the underprivileged.