NEW DELHI: PM Modi on Sunday highlighted the role of the Ayushman Bharat Yojana in ensuring timely treatment of cancer patients within 30 days and said the scheme has become a big support for the poor and reduced financial problems to a great extent.
Citing global studies during Mann Ki Baat programme, Modi lauded the achievements made in the fight against cancer and malaria in India. He referred to a WHO report which says there has been an 80% reduction in the number of malaria cases and deaths between 2015 and 2023.
On cancer, Modi referred to a study published in The Lancet which said the chances of starting cancer treatment on time in India have increased a lot. Emphasising the role of the Ayushman Bharat Yojana in ensuring timely treatment of cancer patients within 30 days, he said, “Because of this scheme, 90% of cancer patients have been able to start their treatment on time. This has happened because earlier, due to lack of money, poor patients used to shy away from getting tested for cancer and its treatment. Now, the yojana has become a big support for them. Now, they are coming forward to get themselves treated”.