Mizoram Universal Healthcare Scheme launched, effective from April

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma officially launched the Mizoram Universal Healthcare Scheme, which will come into effect in April this year. The event took place at the Assembly Annexe Conference Hall during the recess of the ongoing Assembly Session.

In his inaugural speech, the Chief Minister highlighted that the new healthcare scheme aims to replace existing programs, ensuring seamless healthcare services for empanelled hospitals while providing comprehensive medical coverage for citizens. The scheme is the result of a detailed assessment of the state’s healthcare progress over the past five years. Despite financial constraints, the government has prioritized its implementation, with full support from banks to ensure feasibility.

Initially, the scheme was proposed with financial backing from an Asian Development Bank (ADB) loan, and discussions are ongoing. However, the Chief Minister assured that even if the loan does not materialize, the government remains committed to successfully rolling out the program. To facilitate a smooth transition, the state has allocated ₹14.50 crore this month to clear pending medical bills.

The Chief Minister underscored the inseparable link between development and public well-being, emphasizing the necessity of a strong healthcare system. He expressed confidence that the people of Mizoram would embrace this initiative. To enhance efficiency, the scheme will be paperless and fully digital, operating on a cashless basis, eliminating out-of-pocket expenses for beneficiaries.

Eligibility and Enrollment
The scheme will cover:
Government employees
Civil pensioners
General public
Holders of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) Golden Card

Citizens can enroll within the designated registration period. The annual family registration fee is set at ₹2,500, providing medical coverage of up to ₹5,00,000 per family. Contributions from government employees and civil pensioners will be deducted from their monthly salaries.
Following his speech, the Chief Minister addressed questions from the media regarding the scheme’s implementation.

The launch event was chaired by H. Lalengmawia, Commissioner & Secretary, and attended by Lalbiakzama, Speaker, K. Sapdanga, Home Minister, Lalrinpuii, Health & Family Welfare Minister, and other Ministers, MLAs, senior officials, and members of the press.