Proposed Merger of Chiranjeevi and Ayushman Bharat Health Insurance Schemes

Introduction and Current Initiative

- The BJP led Rajasthan government has announced plans to merge its state health insurance scheme, known as Chiranjeevi, with the central Ayushman Bharat programme.

- The unified scheme under proposal is titled as "Ayushman Bharat Mukhyamantri Chiranjeevi Health Insurance Scheme".

- The initiative is currently awaiting approval from the Union Health Ministry.

Highlighting the Scheme and its Benefits

- The new combined scheme will incorporate the current benefits of the Chiranjeevi scheme, which includes a substantial ₹25 lakh insurance cover applicable to both private and government hospitals.

- This insurance cover stands out as it is significantly higher than Ayushman Bharat's provision of ₹5 lakh.

- The scheme is aimed to benefit over 1.42 crore families, giving them comprehensive coverage. The final coverage figures are yet to be confirmed by the health ministry.

Tracing the Historical Background

- The Chiranjeevi scheme was originally launched by then Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot belonging to the Congress party.

4: Future Prospects and Implications

- The amalgamation of Chiranjeevi scheme and Ayushman Bharat programme is in line with the state government's direction to release new health insurance cards by January 26.

- This action also aligns with the nationwide drive to cover all Ayushman Bharat beneficiaries prior to the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Key Points to Remember

- The new combined scheme will retain the comprehensive ₹25 lakh coverage without any reduction.

- The Chiranjeevi scheme will persist in offering widespread coverage benefits.

- This consolidation fits well with the subsequent roll out of the new health insurance cards, as well as the imminent Lok Sabha elections.

- Exact beneficiary numbers are still to be officially confirmed by the health ministry.