Context:
In a major push to upgrade primary healthcare infrastructure in Delhi, the central and Delhi governments have signed a ₹2,406 crore agreement under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM). The initiative includes the establishment of 1,139 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs), 9 critical care blocks, and 11 integrated public health laboratories.
Key Highlights
About PM-ABHIM
- Launched: October 25, 2021
- Type: Centrally sponsored scheme
- Objective: Strengthen India’s public health infrastructure to handle future health crises and disease outbreaks.
Infrastructure Development in Delhi
- 1,139 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs):
Existing mohalla clinics and dispensaries to be upgraded.
These will deliver 12 comprehensive service packages, including:- Maternal and child care
- Vaccination
- Elderly and mental health services
- Communicable disease management
- 9 Critical Care Blocks:
To be integrated into major hospitals and medical colleges, improving ICU and OT capacity. - 11 Integrated Public Health Laboratories (IPHLs):
Equipped for advanced in-house diagnostics.
Confirmed sites include:- Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital (Tahirpur)
- Indira Gandhi Hospital (Dwarka)
Site selection is ongoing for the rest.
Financial and Insurance Benefits
- Project Cost: ₹2,406 crore
- Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY Coverage:
- ₹5 lakh annual insurance per family via PMJAY
- Additional ₹5 lakh via Delhi Govt
- Total: ₹10 lakh annual health cover per family
- Symbolic Launch:
PM-JAY cards distributed to 30 diverse beneficiaries during the launch ceremony.
Strategic Implications
- Boost to Preventive and Curative Health Services:
AAMs and IPHLs will enable faster diagnosis and treatment, reducing burden on tertiary care. - Optimizing Existing Facilities:
Elevating current clinics improves cost efficiency and community outreach. - Government Commitment:
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasized the Union government’s sustained investment in nutrition, yoga, preventive care, and affordable medicine as part of the broader vision for a healthier India.
The upcoming Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and healthcare upgrades under PM-ABHIM are poised to redefine Delhi’s public health system. With expanded insurance coverage and improved infrastructure, the initiative marks a significant step towards universal and equitable healthcare delivery in the capital.
TOI
