Odisha Unveils Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana for Enhanced Healthcare

Odisha's Health Minister announced the launch of the Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY). This scheme will replace the current Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (BSKY) following the 2024-25 budget approval. Beneficiaries can continue using BSKY benefits until GJAY is fully implemented. The state allocated Rs 5,450 crore for GJAY.

Odisha's Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling has confirmed that all beneficiaries under the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (BSKY) will continue to receive benefits as the state transitions to a new health scheme, Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY).

During a statement on Saturday, Mahaling said that the GJAY health initiative, introduced by the BJP government in Odisha, will be launched after the passing of the appropriation bill for the 2024-25 budget in September. He assured that citizens would still receive BSKY benefits until GJAY is phased in gradually.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, while presenting the 2024-25 budget in the Assembly, announced the replacement. Mahaling noted that BSKY beneficiaries could continue to access facilities in government and private hospitals. The state government has earmarked Rs 5,450 crore for GJAY, covering over 96.50 lakh families currently benefiting from BSKY.

Additionally, the minister addressed plans to provide anti-rabies vaccines in all hospitals and medical colleges statewide. Collaboration between the Housing and Urban Development and Health Departments aims to vaccinate stray dogs, aligning with the Centre's National Action Plan for Dog Mediated Rabies Elimination by 2030.

(With inputs from agencies.)