During the India International Trade Fair (IITF) in Delhi, Smart Governance had the opportunity to speak with BJP MP from Ranaghat, Shri Jagannath Sarkar, at the Health Ministry pavilion. In a frank and impassioned discussion, the MP shed light on the challenges plaguing the healthcare sector in West Bengal and criticized the non-implementation of the Centre’s flagship Ayushman Bharat Scheme in the state.The Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) was launched in West Bengal on September 23, 2018. However, it was short-lived, as the State government withdrew from the scheme on January 10, 2019, citing alleged discrepancies and the demand for exclusive state branding. Since then, the scheme has remained non-functional across the state’s 23 districts, leaving millions without the safety net of free health insurance.
Excerpts from the Interview
Thank you for speaking with us, Shri Sarkar. To begin, what is your assessment of the current state of healthcare facilities in West Bengal?
Jagannath Sarkar: Thank you for having me. The state of healthcare in West Bengal is deeply concerning. Public health infrastructure is crumbling, hospitals are overcrowded, and there is a severe shortage of doctors and medical staff. Rural areas, in particular, are suffering the most. People in remote villages often have to travel great distances to access basic medical services, and even then, the quality of care is substandard. Healthcare should never be a matter of political rivalry. The State and Centre must work together to serve the people, especially the poor and marginalized. It is disheartening to see politics being prioritized over the well-being of citizens.
How has the withdrawal of the Ayushman Bharat scheme affected the state?
Jagannath Sarkar: The impact has been devastating. When Ayushman Bharat was initially implemented in West Bengal in September 2018, it brought hope to millions of families. Unfortunately, the State government withdrew from the scheme just four months later, in January 2019. Since then, over 23 districts have been excluded from this life-changing initiative. Eligible families who could have availed free treatment worth ₹5 lakh annually are now left in the lurch, forced to bear huge out-of-pocket expenses for medical care.
What reasons did the State government give for pulling out of the scheme?
Jagannath Sarkar: The State government claimed there were discrepancies and raised concerns over branding, demanding exclusive state recognition for the scheme. These are political excuses, in my opinion. The real losers in this political tussle are the poor and needy citizens of West Bengal who are being denied affordable healthcare.
Do you believe there is a way forward to resolve this issue?
Jagannath Sarkar: Absolutely. Governance is about collaboration, not confrontation. I strongly urge the State government to set aside political differences and work with the Centre for the welfare of the people. Ayushman Bharat has been a game-changer in other states, and there is no reason why Bengal should not benefit from it. Healthcare should not be a victim of politics.
What specific steps would you suggest to improve healthcare in West Bengal?
Jagannath Sarkar: Firstly, the State must reconsider its decision and rejoin Ayushman Bharat. This scheme alone can alleviate a significant portion of the financial burden on families. Secondly, we need a focused investment in improving healthcare infrastructure—building more hospitals, equipping them with modern technology, and addressing staff shortages. Finally, there must be transparency and accountability in the allocation of funds and resources.
What is your message to the people of West Bengal who are suffering due to the current healthcare scenario?
Jagannath Sarkar: My message is one of hope and assurance. As their representative, I will continue to raise these issues at every forum and push for better healthcare facilities in the state. The people of West Bengal deserve access to quality and affordable healthcare, and I will not stop advocating for their rights.
Thank you, Shri Sarkar, for sharing your insights. We hope that collaborative governance can pave the way for better healthcare in West Bengal.
Jagannath Sarkar: Thank you for highlighting this critical issue. I hope our conversation inspires meaningful action for the welfare of the people.
