ASHAs

• The Central government has decided to include Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) in the Ayushman Bharat free public health cover scheme.

RESPONSE:

• The Health Ministry has received Aadhaar details of:
  • 23 lakh Anganwadi workers and helpers.
  • Over three lakh ASHA workers from various States.

SIGNIFICANCE:

• This initiative aims to extend health cover benefits to ASHAs, Anganwadi workers, and helpers under the Ayushman Bharat scheme.

Key Component: Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY)

Coverage:

• Provides health coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per year for poor and vulnerable families.

ASHA PROGRAM SIGNIFICANCE:

• ASHA program noted as a key component of community processes.
• Recognized for continuous evolution over the last decade and a half.
• Functions as a facilitator, mobilizer, and provider of community-level care.
• Acknowledged as the cornerstone of the National Health Mission.

ASHA AND COMMUNITY FIGURES:

• Over 13 lakh Anganwadi workers and over 10 lakh Anganwadi helpers in the country as of December 31, 2023.
• India has 9.83 lakh ASHAs in position against the target of 10.35 lakh across 35 States and UTs.

AYUSHMAN BHARAT SCHEME FIGURES:

• Currently, 55 crore individuals, corresponding to 12 crore families, are covered under the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
• Many States/UTs implementing AB-PMJAY have further expanded the beneficiary base at their own cost.