Excelsior Correspondent
KADAPA (ANDHRA PRADESH), Jan 2: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh has hailed the universal Ayushman health cover for all citizens above 70 years of age regardless of their socio-economic status and described it as a part of the Government’s highly sensitive policy planning with the personal indulgence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
All through an eventful here today as part of his three-day visit under the Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP), the Minister’s visit aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s direction urging Union Ministers to actively engage with aspirational districts, spending significant time on the ground to evaluate progress and guide strategies for future growth.
The Aspirational Districts Programme, launched in 2018, aims to transform underdeveloped regions into models of inclusive and sustainable development. Dr. Jitendra Singh’s visit underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to this mission.
Beginning the day with a detailed briefing on the district’s progress, Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized addressing core issues such as health, nutrition, education, and infrastructure. In his remarks, he highlighted the transformative potential of collaborative governance and accountability in bridging developmental divides and improving the quality of life for citizens.
Dr. Jitendra Singh’s first stop was Nagireddipalle in C.K. Dinne Mandal, where he inspected the Ayushman Arogya Mandir-a model village health and wellness clinic. This facility represents a critical step in making healthcare accessible to rural populations, ensuring that essential medical services are within reach of every citizen.
During his visit, Dr. Jitendra Singh interacted with healthcare workers and beneficiaries, gaining firsthand insights into their challenges and the transformative impact of such initiatives. He applauded the clinic’s role in addressing preventive and primary healthcare needs, which is crucial for achieving universal health coverage in rural areas.
The Minister visited the Anganwadi Centre in Buggalapalli, where he reviewed the implementation of nutrition programs aimed at combating malnutrition among children and women.
The Minister also reviewed water conservation initiatives, a key component of the district’s sustainable development strategy. Demonstrations of rainwater harvesting systems, micro-irrigation techniques, and watershed management projects highlighted the district’s commitment to preserving water resources while supporting agricultural and domestic needs. Dr. Jitendra Singh praised the community-driven approach to water management, emphasizing its role in mitigating water scarcity and ensuring long-term ecological balance.
Throughout his engagements, Dr. Jitendra Singh reiterated the goals of the Aspirational Districts Programme: reducing disparities, promoting inclusive growth, and empowering communities to take charge of their development journey. He commended the collaborative efforts of district officials, local bodies, and citizens in translating these goals into tangible outcomes.