The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): Congress leader Jairam Ramesh strongly criticized the BJP’s management of the healthcare sector, labeling it as one of the significant failures of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. Ramesh emphasized the Congress party’s pledge to establish a universal right to health as part of their manifesto, responding to the increasing costs of healthcare and insurance.
Ramesh pointed out the government’s decision to place health insurance under the 18 percent GST slab, highlighting that over 63 percent of Indians lack health insurance. He stated, “The complete mismanagement of the healthcare sector is part of the long list of failures of the Modi Sarkar’s 10 years of Anyay Kaal. On June 4, every Indian can rest assured the Congress Party’s guarantee of a Right to Health for All.”
He reiterated that the Congress manifesto includes a guarantee of a universal right to health, which features a health coverage of Rs. 25 lakh for every citizen. This promise is seen as essential amid the rising healthcare and insurance costs. According to Ramesh, healthcare costs have been growing at 18-20 percent per year, as per data from the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), and health insurance premiums have increased four times higher than inflation.
Ramesh further highlighted that the cost of a Rs. 10 lakh health cover has risen by 75 percent in the last six years. He lamented that more than 90 crore Indians, which accounts for 63 percent of the population, do not have any form of health insurance.
In its manifesto titled ‘Nyay Patra,’ the Congress party has promised universal and free healthcare services in public health facilities, including hospitals, clinics, primary health centers, mobile healthcare units, dispensaries, and health camps. This comprehensive healthcare coverage would encompass examinations, diagnostics, treatments, surgeries, medicines, rehabilitation, and palliative care.
Moreover, the party aims to implement the Rajasthan model of cashless insurance up to Rs 25 lakh for universal healthcare, ensuring broad and equitable access to health services across the country. This move is part of Congress’s broader strategy to address what they see as the healthcare sector’s deficiencies under the BJP administration and provide a robust alternative for the Indian populace.
