Himachal Pradesh Retains Himcare Yojna Despite Loopholes

Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri assured that Himcare Yojna will continue in Himachal Pradesh. The scheme, which provides up to Rs 5 lakh in cashless treatment for families, has several loopholes that need addressing. A committee will review these issues. Concerns about Ayushman Bharat’s limited coverage were also raised.

Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri confirmed on Thursday that there is no plan to discontinue the Himcare Yojna in Himachal Pradesh, but stressed the need to address the scheme's existing loopholes.

Himcare offers cashless treatment coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh per year per family, a benefit the state authorities are committed to maintaining, Agnihotri said while chairing the first meeting of a cabinet sub-committee examining anomalies in both the Himcare and Ayushman Bharat Yojnas.

Agnihotri pointed out significant reimbursement discrepancies in the Himcare scheme initiated under the previous BJP regime. He also highlighted the need to expand Ayushman Bharat to cover the entire state population, noting current funding constraints from the Centre and the resultant financial burden on the state.

(With inputs from agencies.)