Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday expanded the state's healthcare infrastructure by dedicating 154 new Aam Aadmi Clinics to the public. The addition of these facilities brings the total count of operational clinics across the state to 1,244. Speaking at a public gathering held in village Harkhowal, located in the Chabbewal area, the Chief Minister underscored his administration's commitment to prioritizing healthcare, education, and employment over what he described as the politics of slogans.
The expansion of the clinic network serves as a cornerstone of the state government’s efforts to provide accessible and affordable healthcare services. According to official data shared during the event, these clinics have already facilitated over 6.48 crore Outpatient Department (OPD) visits. Furthermore, the state’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna provides healthcare coverage worth up to Rs 10 lakh for approximately 54.20 lakh families. Government records indicate that nearly 8 lakh beneficiaries have already received medical treatment under this specific scheme.
During his address, the Chief Minister launched a sharp critique of opposition parties. He alleged that political rivals intended to dismantle the Aam Aadmi Clinics, the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, and other welfare measures, such as the monthly financial assistance of Rs 1,000 for women and free bus travel. Mann claimed that these opposition groups were unable to accept the implementation of people-centric initiatives, asserting that their efforts to malign his administration would not succeed due to the public's continued support.
Addressing the political climate ahead of the assembly elections scheduled for early next year, Mann accused previous governments of exploiting power for personal gain and the benefit of select families. He contrasted this with his administration's approach, which he stated focuses on the welfare and aspirations of the common citizen. He specifically targeted the Shiromani Akali Dal and the Congress, suggesting that these parties suffer from internal divisions, a lack of credible leadership, and an inability to offer a constructive vision for the future of Punjab.
The geographical distribution of the 154 newly inaugurated clinics reflects a widespread expansion across the state. Amritsar received 36 new centers, followed by 26 in Patiala, 17 in Ludhiana, 12 in Gurdaspur, 11 in Jalandhar, and 10 in SAS Nagar (Mohali). These centers offer essential medical services, including free diagnostic tests and medications, which the government describes as central to its broader health strategy.
Mann reiterated that his government’s primary duty is to fulfill the promises made to the electorate through concrete actions. He argued that the people of Punjab have rejected historical trends of corruption and nepotism in favor of accountable governance. The Chief Minister urged the citizens to remain vigilant against attempts to mislead them regarding the sustainability of current welfare programs, emphasizing that his administration remains dedicated to transforming the state’s developmental landscape despite opposition resistance.
The Chief Minister concluded his remarks by reaffirming that as long as he retains the trust and love of the people, he remains unconcerned by the tactics of his detractors. He framed the ongoing developments as a significant shift in Punjab’s governance, suggesting that the current transformation is part of a broader trajectory that no conspiracy can halt. The event highlighted the government's focus on maintaining its current welfare trajectory as the state prepares for the upcoming electoral cycle.
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