/dnp-english/media/media_files/2025/02/04/CRVI1bRTNuoAo5POKLJw.webp)
Photograph: (IANS)
As the world observes World Cancer Day 2025 to raise awareness about cancer, the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) continues to make a significant impact in Madhya Pradesh. People, especially in Bhopal, are expressing their gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the initiative, which has become a game changer for cancer patients across the state.
What is Ayushman Bharat?
Launched by Prime Minister Modi on September 23, 2018, Ayushman Bharat is a revolutionary healthcare scheme designed to provide free medical treatment for serious illnesses, including cancer. Available at both government and private hospitals, the scheme is a lifeline for economically disadvantaged citizens who might otherwise be unable to afford the high costs of cancer treatment.
Cancer Patients in Bhopal Praise Ayushman Bharat
In Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, cancer patients are praising the scheme as a "panacea" for the poor. The Jawaharlal Nehru Cancer Hospital in Bhopal, one of the state's leading medical institutions, has become a key facility for those benefiting from Ayushman Bharat. Patients from across the state have been able to receive free treatment, which has helped alleviate the financial burden of cancer care.
Real Stories of Gratitude
Raghuvar Yadav, a resident of Sehore, shared his experience with Ayushman Bharat while bringing his son-in-law, Dharmendra Yadav, to Bhopal for cancer treatment. "I am thankful to PM Modi for this scheme, which has made a huge difference for us. The entire treatment for my son-in-law is being provided free of charge," Raghuvar said. Dharmendra Yadav, also grateful for the scheme, added, "This treatment would have been impossible without Ayushman Bharat."
Similarly, Bal Raghuvanshi from Shivpuri expressed his relief after his mother was diagnosed with cancer and received treatment under the scheme. "We never imagined such a public welfare scheme would help us. It has saved our savings, and we are thankful to PM Modi," he said.
Widespread Benefits for Cancer Patients
Bubly, another cancer patient, also lauded Ayushman Bharat, emphasising the importance of the scheme for low-income families. "Without this scheme, we would never have been able to afford treatment. Thanks to Ayushman Bharat, we are receiving the care we need," she shared.
Anil Lunare, a patient from Betul, also spoke about the scheme’s impact. "My treatment, including chemotherapy, has been completely free under Ayushman Bharat. I am deeply grateful for this support," he said. Similarly, Atiq, a tongue cancer patient, was relieved that his treatment was fully covered. "I haven't had to spend a single rupee. This scheme is a blessing for people like me," he expressed.
Ayushman Bharat offers numerous benefits, particularly for economically disadvantaged families across India. The scheme provides free access to essential healthcare services, including treatment for serious illnesses like cancer, heart diseases, and surgeries, in both government and private hospitals. By covering up to ₹5 lakh per family annually, Ayushman Bharat reduces the financial burden on low-income families who may otherwise struggle to afford medical care. The initiative ensures that people have access to life-saving treatments without the fear of crippling healthcare costs. Additionally, it promotes better health outcomes by making healthcare more accessible, especially for rural and underprivileged populations, and helps bridge the gap in the healthcare system by improving the reach of quality medical services.
The Growing Impact of Ayushman Bharat
Dr. Vijay Bhargava, a cancer specialist at Jawaharlal Nehru Cancer Hospital, mentioned that around 10,000 cancer patients are registered at the hospital annually, with nearly 8,000 receiving treatment through the Ayushman Bharat scheme. "Patients from neighbouring states also come here, and they are treated under the scheme," he added.
As Ayushman Bharat continues to make a positive impact, it reaffirms the government’s commitment to providing accessible and affordable healthcare for all, particularly for cancer patients in Madhya Pradesh.