Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: Kerala has been honored with the Arogya Manthan Award for the third consecutive year for its outstanding performance in providing free medical treatment to the maximum number of people in the country. The state has also been recognized for its exceptional service to the visually challenged under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY).
The Arogya Manthan Award is a prestigious award presented by the Union Health Ministry to recognize and celebrate the achievements of states and union territories in the implementation of various healthcare programs.
Kerala's Health Minister, Veena George, received the award on behalf of the state from Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya at a ceremony in Delhi on September 26, 2023.
In her acceptance speech, George expressed her gratitude to the Union Health Ministry for the recognition and to the healthcare workers of Kerala for their dedication and hard work. She also highlighted the state's commitment to ensuring universal access to healthcare for all its citizens.
Kerala's success in providing free medical treatment to all its citizens is a testament to its strong public health system. The state has a network of government hospitals and clinics that provide high-quality care at an affordable cost. Kerala also has a number of social welfare schemes that provide financial assistance to the poor and vulnerable to access healthcare.
Kerala's commitment to ensuring access to healthcare for all is evident in its high health indicators. The state has the lowest infant mortality rate (IMR) and the highest life expectancy in the country.
Kerala's success in providing free medical treatment to all its citizens is a model for other states to emulate. The state's achievement in winning the Arogya Manthan Award for the third consecutive year is a commendable feat and a testament to its commitment to improving the health of its citizens.