West Bengal has implemented several central government healthcare and skill development schemes, including Ayushman Bharat and PM Vishwakarma, to benefit eligible citizens across the state. These programs provide free healthcare and vocational training to improve lives of underprivileged families.
Ayushman Bharat in West Bengal
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) provides health coverage of ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary hospitalization. In West Bengal, the scheme covers over 1 crore families identified through SECC data.
Eligible beneficiaries can avail cashless treatment at any empaneled hospital across India. The card is issued based on deprivation criteria identified in SECC 2011, covering SC/ST households, landless farmers, and marginalized communities.
PM-JAY Coverage Details
Under PM-JAY, pre-existing diseases are covered from day one. The scheme includes 3 days of pre-hospitalization and 15 days of post-hospitalization expenses. Over 1,500 medical packages covering surgeries, diagnostics, and treatments are included.
Coverage includes cardiac surgeries, cancer treatment, orthopaedic procedures, maternity care, and more. The portability feature allows beneficiaries to avail treatment in any state, not just West Bengal.
PM Vishwakarma Scheme in West Bengal
The PM Vishwakarma scheme provides free skill training and credit support to traditional artisans and craftspeople. In West Bengal, potters, weavers, carpenters, blacksmiths, and other traditional workers are eligible for this program.
Benefits Under PM Vishwakarma
Beneficiaries receive skill training through recognized institutions with a stipend during the training period. After completion, they receive a certificate and access to credit support up to ₹3 lakh for tool upgrading and marketing.
The scheme aims to preserve traditional crafts while improving the economic status of artisans. It includes digital literacy training to help artisans access online markets and platforms.
Application Process
For PM-JAY, eligible families can visit the nearest Common Service Centre (CSC) or empaneled hospital with Aadhaar and ration card to get the Ayushman card. Verification is done through the central database.
For PM Vishwakarma, interested artisans can apply through the official portal or visit local DIC (District Industry Centre). Skill training is provided through empaneled training partners across the state.
Implementation Status
West Bengal has achieved significant coverage under both schemes. Over 50 lakh Ayushman cards have been generated, and thousands have availed free treatment. Under PM Vishwakarma, thousands of artisans have received training in the first phases.