Chamoli, February 25: Uttarakhand’s remote border district is witnessing a healthcare revolution through the central government’s Ayushman Bharat and Vay Vandana schemes. More than 500 cards have been distributed, allowing needy residents free hospital care.
Local Awal Singh Rawat was recently admitted for treatment. ‘The Ayushman card made everything free – no more struggling with expenses or travel,’ he told reporters. His experience highlights how the program tackles longstanding barriers in hilly regions.
Bhimsingh, battling chronic illness, also benefited fully. ‘Doctors recommended hospitalization, and all services from diagnostics to therapy were complimentary,’ he said, encouraging others to enroll.
For years, Chamoli’s people faced hurdles like distant hospitals, poor connectivity, and financial strain, leading to untreated conditions. The schemes provide end-to-end free services, especially for seniors, mitigating these issues effectively.
Dedicated health camps in villages ensure no one is left out, with focus on frontier zones. This push is empowering economically weaker sections and advancing equitable health delivery across the district.
The momentum continues, with enrollment drives promising broader coverage and transforming lives in these challenging landscapes.