Punjab CM Announces ₹10 Lakh Free Cashless Treatment Scheme for All Residents

By A Staff Reporter

Chandigarh: In a landmark step toward universal healthcare, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday announced a new scheme offering free and cashless medical treatment of up to ₹10 lakh to all residents of the state. The initiative, aimed at alleviating the financial burden of healthcare, will be accessible with just an Aadhaar card or Voter ID.

Addressing the public while launching the scheme, Mann emphasized the human cost of unaffordable treatment. “Health is foremost, but you need money for treatment. Due to the expenses, many senior citizens refuse treatment, they surrender themselves to fate... People just give up on life,” he said.

He underlined that high treatment costs often force families to abandon care. “Expense of ₹10 lakh for treatment is so common. Money is asked first, but we need to care,” he added.

Mann called the announcement a “big day” for Punjab, adding that the scheme was designed with compassion and inclusivity at its core. “If we are able to extend lives of people, then there is no greater virtue,” he said.