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<keyword id="23350090" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Healthcare-in-India" source="keywords">Healthcare in India</keyword> is facing a growing crisis as costs continue to rise sharply, increasing by 14% annually, according to the ACKO India <keyword id="19894985" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="health-insurance" source="keywords">Health Insurance</keyword> Index 2024. The report highlights that this double-digit inflation in <keyword id="19909937" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="healthcare" source="keywords">healthcare</keyword> is putting immense pressure on individuals and families across the country. "<keyword id="23350091" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="healthcare-inflation" source="keywords">Healthcare inflation</keyword> was reported at 14 per cent in India," the report stated, illustrating the persistent increase in healthcare expenses. <h2>Out-of-pocket expenditures</h2>One of the most alarming findings in the report is that 62% of healthcare expenses are paid out of pocket by patients and their families. This has created a significant financial burden, often forcing individuals to turn to loans and borrowings to cover medical costs. The report noted that 23% of hospital charges are financed through borrowings, emphasizing the toll this takes on household financial health. In many cases, these <keyword id="20228812" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="out-of-pocket-expenses" source="keywords">out-of-pocket expenses</keyword> are unpredictable and steep, leading to mounting debts for families. As health crises strike unexpectedly, the lack of widespread health insurance coverage is leaving families vulnerable, highlighting the urgent need for better healthcare protection. <h2><keyword id="20699023" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="kidney-disease" source="keywords">Kidney disease</keyword> capital: Delhi</h2>Kidney disease has emerged as a growing concern in India, with Delhi being identified as the kidney disease capital of the country. The report states that Delhi NCR had the highest share of health insurance claims related to kidney health, followed closely by Kochi. "Delhi is the capital for kidney disease, followed by Kochi. Delhi NCR had the highest share of claims related to kidney health," the report confirmed, indicating a rising trend in kidney-related issues. Beyond the staggering number of claims, the financial impact of treating kidney diseases has also been brought to light. The average age of patients claiming for kidney and renal problems is 47 years, showing that kidney issues are affecting people at a relatively young age. One of the highest bills for kidney-related treatment in the past year amounted to Rs 24,73,894, showing just how costly these health conditions can be. <h2>Rising <keyword id="19898369" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="heart-disease" source="keywords">heart disease</keyword> in major cities</h2>The report also flagged the increasing number of heart disease cases in India's metropolitan cities. Kolkata and Mumbai recorded the highest number of claims related to heart conditions, with hospitalizations for cardiovascular issues like heart attacks rising sharply, particularly among people aged 31 to 50 years. "Kolkata and Mumbai topped the list of metros when it came to disorders of the circulatory system like heart attacks," the report noted, painting a worrying picture of the growing burden of lifestyle diseases in urban India. Poor diets, stress, and lack of exercise are all contributing factors, creating a serious public health challenge for the country. In addition to kidney and heart diseases, the report also highlighted concerns surrounding cancer. The ACKO Index predicts that <keyword id="20418550" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="cancer-cases" source="keywords">cancer cases</keyword> are expected to rise by 13% between 2020 and 2025, which, coupled with the already high cost of cancer treatment, adds further strain to the healthcare system. <h2>Expanding health coverage</h2>In response to the growing healthcare challenges, the Indian government has introduced measures aimed at reducing the burden on citizens. On September 11, 2024, the Union Cabinet approved health coverage for all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, under the <keyword id="19913233" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ayushman-Bharat" source="keywords">Ayushman Bharat</keyword> Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY). This scheme will provide health insurance regardless of income level, offering Rs 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalisation. This move is a step forward in protecting senior citizens from catastrophic healthcare expenses, but the need for broader reforms remains critical as the out-of-pocket burden for millions of younger citizens continues to mount. (with inputs from agencies)

Healthcare in India faces massive strain as costs rise by 14% annually; most expenses paid out-of-pocket

No expert committee has been set up for extending <keyword id="19923745" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="health-benefits" source="keywords">health benefits</keyword> to cover citizens aged 70 and above under <keyword id="19913233" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Ayushman-Bharat" source="keywords">Ayushman Bharat</keyword>, <keyword id="22556022" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Union-Minister-of-State-for-Health" source="keywords">Union Minister of State for Health</keyword> Prataprao Jadhav told the Lok Sabha on Friday. He was responding to a question on whether the government proposed to cover citizens aged 70 and above by expanding Ayushman Bharat through the launch of a <keyword id="21782708" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="National-Health-Claims-Exchange" source="keywords">national health claims exchange</keyword> and if an expert panel had been set up to strengthen the format of the scheme for the planned expansion. Jadhav, in a written reply, said all members of eligible families, irrespective of age, were covered under Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana. The scheme provides <keyword id="19894985" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="health-insurance" source="keywords">health insurance</keyword> cover of Rs 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalisation to 55 crore individuals, corresponding to 12.34 crore families, he said. "No expert committee has been set up for extending the health benefits to cover <keyword id="19894991" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="senior-citizens" source="keywords">senior citizens</keyword> aged 70 and above," he stated. Responding to another question, Jadhav said 34 insurers and third-party administrators were live and approximately 300 hospitals ramping up to start sending their claims on the National Health Claims Exchange (NHCX), which aims to streamline and fasten health <keyword id="35450" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Insurance" source="Orion">insurance</keyword> claim processing, as on July 21. Jadhav said the government built the NHCX gateway under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. It aims to streamline and standardise health insurance claim processing, enhance efficiency in the insurance industry and improve patient experience. It serves as a gateway for exchanging health claim information among insurers, third party audit, healthcare providers, beneficiaries and other relevant entities and ensures interoperability, machine-readability, auditability and verifiability, making the information exchange accurate and trustworthy, the minister said. This system will enhance efficiency and transparency in the insurance industry, benefiting policyholders and patients, he added. Supported by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India and the General Insurance Council, the NHCX will enable standardised and faster health insurance claim processing, Jadhav said.

No panel formed for extending benefits to cover citizens above 70 under Ayushman Bharat, says govt

<ul><li>India's real GDP grew at around 8.2% in real terms in Fy24: Economic Survey </li><li>Retail inflation dipped to 5.4% in FY24, notes Economic Survey</li><li>Unemployment dipped to 3.2% in FY24</li></ul><keyword id="19912360" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Finance-Minister-Nirmala-Sitharaman" source="keywords">Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword> is set to present the union budget on 23rd July, at 11 am. The budget session is scheduled to last between 22nd July and 12th August. This will be <keyword id="19956941" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="FM-Sitharaman" source="keywords">FM Sitharaman</keyword>'s seventh consecutive budget presentation under the third term of <keyword id="20205025" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Bhartiya-Janata-Party" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Bhartiya Janata Party" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Bhartiya Janata Party">Bhartiya Janata Party</keyword> (BJP). All budget-related documents will be available at indiabudget.gov.in. You can watch the presentation live on Doordarshan, Sansad TV, and also on various official government YouTube channels. With this budget, Sitharaman will only precede former PM <keyword id="20342248" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Morarji-Desai" source="keywords">Morarji Desai</keyword>, who has presented the highest number of budget (10) till date, followed by <keyword id="22330828" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="P-Chidambaram" source="keywords">P. Chidambaram</keyword> with 9 budgets, and Pranab Mukherjee, who has 8 budgets to his credit. In her recent address in parliament, Sitharaman noted that significant social and economic decisions will be a highlight of this budget. Notably, she concluded <keyword id="901788" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="pre-budget-consultations" source="Orion">pre-budget consultations</keyword>, which began on June 19th, on July 5th, where she met 20 invitees across 10 groups, including representatives from agriculture, skill development, finance and banking, energy, <keyword id="17408" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Infrastructure" source="Orion">infrastructure</keyword> sector and more. <h2>Key expectations from Budget 2024</h2>Experts note that this budget will mainly focus on improving consumption, and boosting <keyword id="174143" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="infrastructure-development" source="Orion">infrastructure development</keyword>. Per reports, the government is also mulling raising the threshold of standard deduction under income tax regimes from the present Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh. Additionally, to boost healthcare accessibility for the underserved in the country, the government is also contemplating to double the annual coverage offered under the <keyword id="20097876" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ayushman-Bharat-health-insurance-scheme" source="keywords">Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme</keyword> from the present Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh over the next 3 years, along with also covering individuals aged over 70. Mr. Tashwinder Singh, CEO &amp; MD, Niyogin Fintech Limited, which offers credit to MSMEs, noted that upcoming regulatory changes should focus on simplifying compliance, taxation policies that encourage entrepreneurship, and incentivise innovations that drive R&amp;D investments. "We hope that the government takes measures to support the lending industry through access to capital and affordable interest rates, enabling entrepreneurs to realize their vision. Furthermore, we look forward to relaxed norms for NBFCs, allowing them to contribute more substantially to the economy. These measures will collectively propel India's economic growth, boost job creation, and position the Indian fintech industry as a strong contender in innovation and entrepreneurship", he continues. As for bolstering green infrastructure and clean energy production, Ms Aditi Balbir, Co-founder, EcoRatings notes that the 2024 union budget should prioritize investments in sustainable infrastructure projects and clean energy solutions, as 70% of greenhouse gas emissions stem from energy, industry, and buildings. "This will create a future-proof foundation for economic growth and help in achieving net-zero targets. Infrastructure is crucial in addressing climate change and meeting diverse societal needs. A transformative overhaul of our current and future infrastructure assets is essential. The budget should introduce financial incentives, such as lower interest rates on loans and dedicated grants, for companies committed to ESG compliance. This will create a clear link between sustainability efforts and economic benefits", she continued. <h2>Focus on Agri-credit, Real Estate in Budget 2024</h2>The government could also raise the target for agricultural loans disbursed during the year by up to 25%, setting the target at Rs 25 lakh crore. The government will also have to revamp the MSP (minimum support price) system in this space, focusing on challenges such as narrow coverage, dipping export competitiveness, discouraging private investment in this space and more. Another area that demands significant attention is real estate. Shubhi Jain, Principal Partner &amp; Head of CRM, Square Yards anticipates significant reforms in the upcoming budget under the new government. Securing industry status will unlock a plethora of legal and administrative benefits, along with much-needed tax incentives. "Also, while government’s focus on affordable housing under PMAY is commendable, recalibrating strategies in light of escalating construction costs is imperative for sustained inclusiveness and effectiveness. Moreover, enhanced tax reliefs and increased deductions on home loans, currently capped at INR 2 lakhs, are pivotal in stimulating demand and supporting prospective buyers", she says. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111946291" title="Union Budget 2024-25 key highlights: Assistance for Nalanda's development as a tourist center" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><h2>Short-term outlook positive, notes Economic Survey </h2>FM Sitharaman presented the Economic Survey 2023-24 in the parliament today, ahead of the budget. The survey noted that the Indian economy had managed to recover and expand in an orderly fashion post the pandemic, with the real GDP growing by 8.2% in FY24. Going ahead, prospects for continued strong growth in FY25 remain robust. India also managed to bring down its current account deficit (0.7% of GDP in FY24), while projecting a 7%+ growth rate in the medium term. On the employment front, the survey noted that AI might moderate India's services export growth by as much as 0.3 to 0.4 percentage points annually over the course of the next decade. As such, greater emphasis and focus is needed on areas like blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, Internet of Things, cybersecurity, cloud computing, big data analytics, augmented reality, virtual reality, 3D printing, and web and mobile development. The Indian labour market indicators have significantly improved over the past 6 years, with unemployment rates dipping to 3.2% in 2022-23. However, even as net payroll additions to EPFO have doubled over the last 5 years, signaling a healthy formal employment market, job creation and increasing women participation in workforce remain key areas of concern. For all updates and latest information related to the budget, don't forget to follow <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/budget" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Budget Insider</a>! SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/budget/news/union-budget-2024-live-updates-finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-key-announcements-23-july/liveblog/111942008.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Union Budget 2024 Live Updates: FM Sitharaman announces internships for 10 million youth in 500 top companies</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/budget/news/loan-limit-under-mudra-scheme-to-be-doubled-to-20-lakh-sitharaman/articleshow/111950024.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Loan limit under MUDRA scheme to be doubled to ₹20 lakh: Sitharaman</a>

Union Budget 2024: When will it be presented, what time, where to watch and what are various sectors expecting?

Most of us think of India as a young country. And as home to one-fifth of the world's young population and with an average age of 29, you're right. But did you know India's elderly population is set to double from its present 153 million to a staggering 347 million, in just 30 years? Moreover, by the end of this century, the population of <keyword id="19894991" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="senior-citizens" source="keywords">senior citizens</keyword> in India will surpass the population of those aged under 14, as per a report by the United Nations Population Fund and the International Institute for Population Sciences. As such, with <keyword id="19955368" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Budget-2024" source="keywords">budget 2024</keyword> looming on the horizon, what is it that this burgeoning section of our population wants? We take a look : <h2>Wish 1: Raise deduction threshold for <keyword id="22285655" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="mediclaim-premium" source="keywords">mediclaim premium</keyword></h2>At present, senior citizens (aged 60 and above) and super senior citizens (aged 80 and above) can claim a deduction of up to Rs 50,000 on health insurance premiums they pay during the year. For those aged below 60, the annual deduction limit is of Rs 25,000. But, as Tarun Mathur, CBO, Policybazaar.com notes, "There’s a need for an increase in the tax deduction limit for health insurance premiums, to raise the same to Rs 50,000 for individuals, their spouses, and dependent children, and to Rs 1 lakh for senior citizen parents". With insurance regulator <keyword id="6361421" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="IRDA" source="Orion">IRDA</keyword> removing the age cap (which was previously 65 years) for buying new insurance policies, health insurance for senior citizens becomes far more accessible. Given that only 20% of India's population aged 60 have any kind of health insurance, a comprehensive insurance coverage with low tax liabilities becomes a necessity for our senior citizens. At present, the government is mulling extending the <keyword id="22285657" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ayushman-Bharat-Pradhan-Yojana" source="Orion">Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Yojana</keyword> to provide crucial, free healthcare support for India's senior citizens aged above 70. But only time, and July 22nd will tell. <h2>Wish 2: Offer similar tax benefits to pension products as NPS </h2>NPS, or <keyword id="475509" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="National-Pension-System" source="Orion">National Pension System</keyword> is a lucrative retirement planning scheme. And it comes with many tax benefits. For instance, if you withdraw up to 60% of your accumulated pension as lumpsum once you turn 60, your withdrawal is tax free. Similarly, if any amount you receive from NPS is reinvested in the annuity plan, it remains tax exempt. However, income from annuities is taxed as per your regular income tax slab. And any early withdrawals that you make (before 60 years) will attract taxes. A standard deduction of Rs 50,000, or amount of annuity income (whichever is lower) can be claimed. But under regular annuities or pension products, senior citizens pay a 10% tax on total taxable income over Rs. 3 lakhs , Rs 20,000 + 20% over amount exceeding Rs 5 lakh, and Rs 1.2 lakh+ 30% on amount exceeding Rs 10 lakh. As Mathur notes, "Pension products like annuity plans should be given the same tax benefits as NPS, since the current taxation does not encourage investment in retirement planning. It’s also necessary to expand Section 80C deductions and add a dedicated category for term insurance because the existing limit of Rs. 1,50,000 is insufficient". Even retirement planner Sanjeev Dawar notes that income from annuities is a primary source of income for retirees. "As such, tax relief is expected since returns, although assured for life, are relatively low. Moreover, they remain fixed and have no sensitivity to inflation". Additionally, Dawar also advocates for special financial considerations for eligible individuals who are compelled to stay in old-age homes in their twilight years. It is also needed that travel concessions, that have been withdrawn, are restarted". <h2>Wish 3: Lowering lock-in periods for elderly </h2>Many schemes like national savings certificate (NSC), unit-linked insurance plans (ULIP) and senior citizen savings scheme (SCSS) are subject to tax deductions, provided they are redeemed after their specific <keyword id="20792448" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="lock-in-period" source="keywords">lock-in period</keyword>. For instance, tax-saver FDs, ULIPs and NSC have a lock-in period of 5 years, while equity-linked savings scheme (ELSS) have a lock-in period of 3 years. It would help senior citizens if this lock-in period is reduced, so that they have some liquidity and cash handy during medical or other such emergencies. Additionally, withdrawals should be allowed within lock-in period sans hefty penalties, as is the case right now. <h2>Wish 4: Lowering GST on health insurance premiums </h2>Currently, GST on health insurance premium is payable at 18%, which can translate into a hefty levy, especially since senior citizens end up paying significantly higher premiums to get insurance coverage. For a premium of Rs 30,000, the GST could go as high as Rs 5,400. As per Prasun Sikdar, MD &amp; CEO, Manipal Cigna Health Insurance, "lowering the GST burden on the health insurance premiums will be a huge respite for missing middle and senior citizens to get access to quality healthcare they need and help to significantly boost insurance penetration across India by driving affordability.” <h2> Wish 5: Reduce tax on <keyword id="21695681" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="passive-income" source="keywords">passive income</keyword> sources for aged</h2>For most senior citizens, rental income from house, pension and other such passive sources turn into a major income avenue, once they retire from active employment. As such, these should be taxed at a lower slab, and not considered as regular salary. Or else, higher exemption limits should be introduced to allow them to save more. At present, the basic exemption limit for senior citizens between 60-80 years is Rs 3 lakh, while the exemption limit for citizens above 80 years is Rs 5 lakhs. The limits should be revised, keeping in mind how expensive medical care is in current times.

Budget 2024: Here's what India's elderlies want

<ul><li>The <keyword id="6199405" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ayushman-bharat" source="Orion">Ayushman Bharat</keyword> Digital Scheme aims to provide an integrated database to all stakeholders in the healthcare ecosystem.</li><li>It is looking to collect information using a host of apps to allow interoperability between key players in the sector.</li><li>The chief of the National Health Authority compared the system to Unified Payment Interface. </li></ul>The Ayushman Bharat <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/national-digital-health-mission-all-details-here/articleshow/86550377.cms">Digital Mission</a> was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 27 to provide integrated health information on a single digital platform. For the mission, the system is looking to collect data from a host of apps into its database and focusing on interoperability between key players in the sector. In an interview with <a href="https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/ayushman-bharat-digital-mission-upi-like-health-apps-with-common-database-indias-next-big-leap-rs-sharma-2556914">NDTV</a>, RS Sharma, the chief of the National Health Authority and CoWIN, explained the working of the new digital system and how it is looking to create a database with health data of patients on a single platform. While the system may aim to bridge the gap between various stakeholders in the healthcare ecosystem, it will have access to sensitive data of citizens. He said that the broad objective of the mission is to make health services affordable, accessible and inclusive. "The system will be interoperable. Currently, we do have digital systems, but they are all in silos, whether it is any medical delivery system, pharmacy system. But this is going to make them all interoperable," RS Sharma added. Although it enables services like online consultation with doctors, it might expose patients' health records to private partners which may add a potential risk of data being used for targeted advertising by service providers. But it’s still too early to counter these factors in as the details about where the database will be stored, who will have access to it and how will it be used are still scarce. As per the report, RS Sharma explained the new digital mission by calling it a Unified Health Interface and drawing similarities with Unified Payment Interface (UPI). "For example, you use Ola app to book Ola vehicles, and Uber to book Uber taxis. But think of a situation where you have Ola app and can book any taxi on any platform. That's the interoperability this system is going to bring, and that is why we are calling it Unified Health Interface, similar to Unified Payment Interface, which means any patient-facing app can connect with the system," he said. There will be no limits on the number of apps that can be synced with the system to collect the health data of the patient. The chief of the National Health Authority also added that startups can “plug into the system, access data and make patient-facing apps”. While it clearly explains how startups can access the data to create applications, it does not tell us if users will have consented before their data is shared. As per its claims, the digital mission is looking to bridge the gap between various stakeholders in the healthcare ecosystem through digital means. It is expected to help the citizens get better access to healthcare services in the country. The databases it is looking to maintain include that of healthcare facilities, healthcare professionals and individual health data. While this initiative may have the potential to strengthen the healthcare sector, if not secure, it could put the data of millions of citizens at risk. SEE ALSO <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/cyclone-gulab-leaves-a-devastating-effect-in-eastern-coast-of-india/slidelist/86585252.cms">Here are some of the images of devastation caused by Cyclone Gulab</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/covid-19-60-students-test-positive-in-bengaluru-school/articleshow/86604715.cms">COVID-19: 60 students test positive in Bengaluru school</a>

India’s Digital Health Mission aims to track and store your health data using UPI-like apps

Indian billionaires saw their combined fortunes more than double during the COVID-19 pandemic, and their count shot up by 39 percent to 142, while the wealth of the ten richest is enough to fund school and higher education of children in the country for 25 years, a new study showed on Monday. In its annual inequality survey released on the first day of the <keyword id="69007" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="world-economic-forum" source="Orion">World Economic Forum</keyword>'s online <keyword id="10572200" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Davos-Agenda-summit" source="Orion">Davos Agenda summit</keyword>, <keyword id="69945" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Oxfam-India" source="Orion">Oxfam India</keyword> further said that an additional one percent tax on the richest 10 percent can provide the country with nearly 17.7 lakh extra oxygen cylinders, while a similar wealth tax on the 98 richest billionaire families would finance <keyword id="6199405" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ayushman-bharat" source="Orion">Ayushman Bharat</keyword>, the world's largest health insurance scheme, for more than seven years. The COVID-19 pandemic saw a huge rush for oxygen cylinders and insurance claims during the second wave last year. On wealth inequality, Oxfam report further said that 142 Indian billionaires collectively own wealth of USD 719 billion (over Rs 53 lakh crore), while the richest 98 of them now have the same wealth as the poorest 55.5 crore people in the bottom 40 per cent (USD 657 billion or nearly Rs 49 lakh crore). If each of the 10 richest Indian billionaires were to spend USD one million daily, it would take them 84 years to exhaust their current wealth, while an annual wealth tax applied to multi-millionaires and billionaires would raise USD 78.3 billion a year that would be enough to increase government health budget by 271 per cent or eliminate households' out-of-pocket health budget and leave some USD 30.5 billion. Noting that COVID-19 may have begun as a health crisis but has become an economic one now, Oxfam said the wealthiest 10 per cent have amassed 45 per cent of the national wealth while the share of the bottom 50 per cent of the population is a mere 6 per cent. It further said that the inadequate governmental expenditure on health, education and social security has gone hand-in-hand with a rise in the privatisation of health and education, thus making a full and secure COVID-19 recovery out of reach for the common citizen. The study urged the government to revisit its primary sources of revenue generation, adopting more progressive methods of taxation and assessing its structural issues that permit such wealth accumulation by the rich. Additionally, the government should also redirect revenue towards health, education and social security, treating them as universal rights and as a means of reducing inequality, thereby avoiding the privatisation model for these sectors, Oxfam said. "We call upon the government to redistribute India's wealth from the super-rich to generate resources for the majority by reintroducing the wealth tax and to generate revenue to invest in the education and health of future generations by imposing a temporary one per cent surcharge on the rich for health and education," it said. On gender inequality, Oxfam India said women accounted for 28 per cent of all job losses and lost two-thirds of their income during the pandemic. It further said India's 2021 budget allocation for the <keyword id="173679" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ministry-of-women-and-child-development" source="Orion">Ministry of Women and Child Development</keyword> is less than half of the total accumulated wealth of the bottom ten of India's billionaire list and just a 2 per cent tax on individuals with an income of over 10 crore could increase the ministry's budget by an astounding 121 per cent. If the wealth of the first 100 billionaires is accumulated, they could fund the National Rural Livelihood Mission scheme, responsible for creating Self Help Groups for women, for the next 365 years. On health inequality, the report said a 4 per cent wealth tax on the 98 richest families in India would finance the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for more than 2 years and noted that their combined wealth is 41 per cent more than the Union Budget of India. On education inequality, the study said a 1 per cent of tax on wealth of the 98 billionaires in India can fund the total annual expenditure of the department of school education and literacy under the Ministry of Education, while 4 per cent of tax on their wealth can take care of Mid-Day-Meal programme of the country for 17 years or Samagra Sikshya Abhiyan for 6 years. Similarly, a 4 per cent tax on the wealth of the 98 billionaires would be enough to fund the Mission POSHAN 2.0, which includes Anganwadi Services, POSHAN Abhiyan, Scheme for Adolescent Girls, and National Creche Scheme, for 10 years. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/budget/news/even-after-the-lic-ipo-indian-government-may-be-well-short-of-its-divestment-target/articleshow/88938799.cms">Even after the LIC IPO, Indian government may be well short of its divestment target ⁠— for a third year in a row</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/hdfc-bank-hcl-tech-indian-oil-hero-motocorp-and-other-hot-stocks-on-january-17/slidelist/88941679.cms">HDFC Bank, HCL Tech, Indian Oil, Hero MotoCorp and other hot stocks on January 17</a>

Wealth of India's ten richest enough to fund school, higher education of every child for 25 years, reveals Oxfam study

<ul><li>The <keyword id="12180201" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ayushman-bharat-digital-mission" source="Orion">Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission</keyword> was launched on September 27. </li><li>It aims to develop and support an integrated digital health infrastructure in the country.</li><li>It has four key components that are expected to benefit all stakeholders in the healthcare ecosystems. </li></ul>Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/pm-modi-to-announce-rollout-of-health-mission-on-september-27-aims-to-digitalize-healthcare-across-india/articleshow/86452327.cms">Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission</a> (ABDM) earlier on Monday and said it has the power to bring “revolutionary changes” in the healthcare facilities in the country. The mission aims to develop the “backbone necessary to support the integrated digital health infrastructure of the country.” Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates praised the launch of the mission and said it will ensure equitable, accessible healthcare delivery and accelerate progress on India’s health goals. <div type="twitter" handle="BillGates" handlename="Bill Gates" image="http://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1414439092373254147/JdS8yLGI_normal.jpg" favoritecount="14697" retweetcount="2909" status="Congratulations @narendramodi on the national launch of Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. This digital health infras… https://t.co/0uNuV9mpVz" createdat="1632866555000" id="1442973036081139714"></div> The ABDM is looking to bridge the gap between various stakeholders in the healthcare ecosystem through digital means. It is expected to help the citizens get better access to the healthcare services in the country. <div type="twitter" handle="narendramodi" handlename="Narendra Modi" image="http://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1249934092994375680/xX66NSZP_normal.jpg" favoritecount="38728" retweetcount="6915" status="Tomorrow, 27th September is an important day for India’s healthcare sector. At 11 AM, the Ayushman Bharat Digital M… https://t.co/Ep5Db7u4Fs" createdat="1632668649000" id="1442142958757703684"></div> <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="The components of ABDM" comment="subhead" text="The components of ABDM">The components of ABDM</cmsannotation> There are four key components of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission that include a <keyword id="9679891" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="health-id" source="Orion">health ID</keyword>, health facility registry, health record and healthcare professionals registry. Let’s take a look at how each component will work. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Health ID" comment="subhead" text="Health ID">Health ID</cmsannotation> Citizens can create their Health ID to store, access and share their health data. The creation of the ID is voluntary and can be done by linking Aadhaar or mobile number. As per the website, users can erase their health data at will. This ID will allow health healthcare providers to view patients’ past records digitally. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Health facility registry" comment="subhead" text="Health facility registry">Health facility registry</cmsannotation> Healthcare providers can register and be part of ABDM’s digital ecosystem. This list will have the list of registered healthcare providers. It will include both public and private health facilities, such as hospitals, clinics, diagnostic laboratories and imaging centres, pharmacies and others. It is aimed at helping individuals find health services digitally and with ease. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Health Records" comment="subhead" text="Health Records">Health Records</cmsannotation> The health records is an app that should let users add and maintain their health data. The users can also share the data with whom they wish to, such as doctors, healthcare facilities and others. You can download the health records app <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=in.ndhm.phr">here</a>. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Healthcare professionals registry" comment="subhead" text="Healthcare professionals registry">Healthcare professionals registry</cmsannotation> This component will allow all healthcare professionals to add themselves ABDM’s healthcare ecosystem. It is claimed to be aimed at allowing professionals involved in healthcare services, both modern and traditional, to get online presence and visibility. The healthcare professionals who sign up to ABDM’s registry can view patient’s records online and also treat them online. SEE ALSO <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/bharat-bandh-in-india-checkout-what-will-be-open-and-what-will-remain-closed-today/articleshow/86546426.cms">Bharat Bandh — Checkout what will be open and what will remain closed today</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/highlights-of-prime-minister-narendra-modis-speech-at-the-unga-today/articleshow/86510462.cms">Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi makes his points on China, Afghanistan and Pakistan at the United Nations General Assembly</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/coastal-andhra-on-alert-as-gulab-set-to-make-landfall/articleshow/86526647.cms">Coastal Andhra on alert as 'Gulab' set to make landfall</a>

All you need to know about National Digital Health Mission

<ul><li>The <keyword id="13157583" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="ayushman-bharat-health-account" source="Orion">Ayushman Bharat Health Account</keyword> (<keyword id="108412" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="abha" source="Orion">ABHA</keyword>) is a health ID developed by the Indian government.</li><li>This will allow you to easily share your health data such as health records and diagnostic records with healthcare providers.</li><li>Here’s everything you need to know about the benefits of ABHA and how to apply for ABHA.</li></ul>The Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA), which was earlier known as <keyword id="13650107" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="ayushman-bharat-health-id" source="Orion">Ayushman Bharat Health ID</keyword> was launched by the Indian government in 2021 and is aimed at providing a digital health ID to the population. This was launched by the National Health Authority (NHA), which is part of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. As per the government, ABHA is the “first step towards creating safer and efficient digital health records for you and your family.” <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="What is ABHA?" comment="subhead" text="What is ABHA?">What is ABHA?</cmsannotation> ABHA is a unique health ID that uses a 14-digit identification number and can be generated using an Aadhaar card or your mobile number. It allows users to share their health records digitally with hospitals, clinics, insurance providers and others. Citizens can create their unique ABHA without any cost. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="What are the benefits of ABHA?" comment="subhead" text="What are the benefits of ABHA?">What are the benefits of ABHA?</cmsannotation> The benefits of ABHA are as follows – <ul><li>You can access all your medical records such as lab reports, prescriptions and diagnoses on the platform.</li><li>You can use the platform to easily share your medical records with hospitals, clinics and insurance providers.</li><li>This will make it easier for you to present your medical records even if you are in a different city or state.</li></ul><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="How to apply for ABHA?" comment="subhead" text="How to apply for ABHA?">How to apply for ABHA?</cmsannotation> You have the option to generate your ABHA using your Aadhaar card, Driving license or using your mobile number. Let’s take the example of using your Aadhaar card. <ul><li>To begin, go to the <a href="https://healthid.ndhm.gov.in/">ABHA website</a>.</li><li>Click on “Create your ABHA now”.</li><li>Then, click on “Generate via Aadhaar”.</li><li>Now, enter your Aadhaar number or Virtual ID.</li><li>Scroll down and click on “I agree” and complete the captcha below.</li><li>Then, click on “Submit”.</li><li>Enter the OTP that you have received on your smartphone and click on “Submit”.</li><li>Now, enter your mobile number and click on “Submit”.</li><li>Then, you will be shown the details that have been fetched using your Aadhaar card.</li><li>Verify the details and click on “Submit”.</li><li>You will also have the option to create an ABHA address that is similar to an email ID.</li><li>Once you have done this, you will be able to download your ABHA card.</li></ul>

ABHA health card — features, benefits and how to apply for card

<ul><li>The announcement was made by Chief Minister <keyword id="2458540" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="manohar-lal-khattar" source="Orion">Manohar Lal Khattar</keyword> while addressing on the occasion of a blood donation camp organised by Samaras Hindu Manch. </li><li>The necessary medical tests for their health check-up will also be free-of-cost. </li><li>Khattar added that the <keyword id="6199405" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ayushman-Bharat" source="Orion">Ayushman Bharat</keyword> scheme has been implemented to provide medical treatment facilities to the poor. </li></ul> In <keyword id="41646" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="haryana" source="Orion">Haryana</keyword>, people suffering from <keyword id="64819" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="thalassemia" source="Orion">thalassemia</keyword> will be given ₹ 2,500 per month and the necessary medical tests for their health check-up will also be free-of-cost so that the cost burden of treatment is not borne by the family members. This announcement was made by Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar while addressing on the occasion of a blood donation camp organised by Samaras Hindu Manch in Gurugram on the birthday of Prime Minister <keyword id="6354477" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="narendra-modi" source="Orion">Narendra Modi</keyword>. On behalf of the people of the state, Khattar extended warm greetings to Modi on the occasion of his 72nd birthday. The Chief Minister boosted the morale of the thalassemia-affected children and their families present in the camp. He also got clicked for a group photo with them. On this occasion, Khattar also distributed cards among 125 children suffering from thalassemia through which they can get their blood tests done along with other tests like MRI etc. at free-of -cost for one year by the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram. He said thalassemia is a serious disease in which a person's blood has to be changed after a period and its treatment is expensive. The Chief Minister added that the Ayushman Bharat scheme has been implemented to provide medical treatment facilities to the poor, and is a combined scheme of the Central and state governments. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/domestic-discord-addiction-the-top-causes-of-suicides/articleshow/94269978.cms">Domestic discord, addiction the top causes of suicides</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sustainability/article/sustainability-forum-shifting-gears-evaluating-the-road-to-sustainable-mobility/articleshow/94248881.cms">Sustainability forum: Shifting gears — ‘EV’aluating the road to sustainable mobility</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/condom-maker-mankind-pharma-files-papers-for-an-ipo/articleshow/94249464.cms">Condom maker Mankind Pharma files papers for an IPO</a>

Thalassemia patients to get ₹ 2,500 per month in Haryana

<keyword id="6354925" type="LOCATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="kolkata">Kolkata</keyword>, <keyword id="7889552" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="West-Bengal-Governor-Jagdeep-Dhankhar">West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar</keyword> on Wednesday inaugurated the launch of <keyword id="10367132" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="phase-3-regulatory-trial">Phase-3 regulatory trial</keyword> of Covaxin at ICMR-NICED here, lauding the country's leadership for "effectively tackling" the <keyword id="8902449" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="covid-19-pandemic">COVID-19 pandemic</keyword>. Dhankhar said NICED has been chosen as one among two dozen centres in the country for the third phase trial of the indigenously developed coronavirus <keyword id="24209" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="vaccine">vaccine</keyword>, and expressed confidence that the procedure would be conducted smoothly. "India has done commendably well (when it comes to handling the pandemic). It is all on account of the country's visionary leadership," he said. The governor further said that the Centre's <keyword id="6199968" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ayushman-Bharat-scheme">Ayushman Bharat scheme</keyword>, which provides free healthcare services, has provided succour to many amid the crisis. Notably, the scheme has not been implemented in West Bengal so far. The TMC government had said in September that it would implement the scheme if funds for the programme are routed through the state administration, contrary to the provisions laid down by the Centre. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/corporates/news/burger-king-grey-market-premium-and-heres-what-brokerages-say-about-the-ipo-opening-tomorrow/articleshow/79508730.cms?upcache=2">Burger King India IPO opens today — brokerages recommend ‘subscribe’ on attractive valuations</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/top-stocks-to-watch-dr-reddys-lab-reliance-power-hero-moto-eicher-motors-tvs-motor-phoenix-mills-coal-india-and-others/articleshow/79521982.cms">Top stocks to watch — Dr Reddy’s Lab, Reliance Power, Hero Moto, Eicher Motors, TVS Motor, Phoenix Mills, Coal India, and others</a>

Covaxin's phase three regulatory trial begins in Kolkata

Jammu, Mar 18 (PTI) The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Wednesday accorded sanction to rolling out the J&amp;K Health Scheme to provide free of cost Universal Health Coverage to all residents of the Union Territory in convergence with Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY. The decision was taken by the administrative council which met under the chairmanship of Lt Governor G C Murmu here, an official spokesperson said. Terming the decision as a major relief to the people, he said now around 1.25 crore residents of the Union Territory would get all benefits provided under the centre's Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY). At present, 31 lakh people are eligible for benefits under Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY, the official said, adding around 15 lakh additional families will be covered under the J&amp;K Health Scheme. As part of Universal Health Coverage, the beneficiaries will be entitled to <keyword id="679984" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Free-health-insurance">free health insurance</keyword> cover of Rs 5 lakh per family per year on floater basis and there is no restriction on family size, age or gender, the official said. "All pre-existing illnesses shall also be covered besides; cashless services shall also be available in all the empanelled hospitals. The beneficiaries under the scheme shall have access to 20,853 (public and private) hospitals across the country and avail benefits with facility of inter-state portability," he said, adding 159 (public and private) hospitals in the UT are empanelled at present. A total of 1,469 medical and surgical packages or procedures including life consuming diseases such as cancer and kidney failure will be covered under the scheme, he said. "Treatment for oncology, cardiology and nephrology related illness will be covered from day one including high-end diagnostic procedures during hospitalisation. The beneficiaries shall also be eligible for coverage of three days pre-hospitalisation and 15 days post hospitalisation expenses," he said. As per the decision of the Administrative Council, the spokesperson said all employees, pensioners and their family members are also covered under the scheme. "The employees shall continue to get Rs 300 per month as medical allowance to take care of OPD treatment," he said. Identification of the eligible families for getting registered for the health scheme will be done on the basis of socio-economic census of 2011. However, the families or people who have been left out in the census can be enrolled on the basis of a defined process, the spokesperson said.

Free health insurance for J&K people under Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY

The railways may be required to convert up to 20,000 train coaches into isolation wards for treatment of COVID-19 patients, the <keyword id="51689" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Railway-Board">Railway Board</keyword> has told its zonal units. In a letter to general managers of zonal railways on Monday, the board has said that initially 5,000 coaches will be converted into isolation wards and asked them to make preparations for it. It also said that the railways had held consultations with Armed <keyword id="5107612" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Forces-Medical-Services">Forces Medical Services</keyword>, medical departments of various zonal railways, and <keyword id="6199405" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="ayushman-bharat">Ayushman Bharat</keyword> before taking the decision. Five zonal railways have already prepared prototypes for the coach-turned-isolation wards, it said. The number of COVID-19 cases climbed to 1,071 in India on Monday, while the death toll rose to 29, according to the <keyword id="83655" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Union-health-ministry">Union Health Ministry</keyword>. ASG SMN SMN SMN

Railway board prepares its units for converting 20000 coaches into isolation wards

New Delhi, Jun 23 () There was a 51 per cent decline in the average weekly claims under the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme during the coronavirus-triggered lockdown, according to an analysis done by a group of researchers. Also, there was a steeper decline in utilisation of services in public hospitals than private hospitals during the lockdown, from March 25 to June 2, stated the National Health Authority (NHA) publication titled 'PM-JAY Under Lockdown: Evidence on Utilization Trends PM-JAY'. The NHA is the apex body responsible for the implementation of health insurance scheme -- Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojna (AB PM-JAY). Among procedures, planned surgeries such as cataract operations and joint replacements suffered a decline of over 90 per cent, while hemodialysis declined by only 6 per cent. There was also a sharp fall in cardiovascular surgeries. Of particular concern are significant decline in admissions for child delivery and oncology, the report stated. Overall, claims per week on an average for surgical procedures fell down to 27,167 during the lockdown from 62,630 being recorded before the lockdown started, registering 57 per cent decline. There was a larger decline in utilisation of surgical procedures (57 per cent) than medical cases (46 per cent) . This is to be expected, since surgeries are more commonly planned in advance, whereas medical cases are not, the researchers said. Another area where the trend in claim volumes raise some concerns is child delivery. Across PMJAY, there was a 26 per cent decline in child deliveries during the lockdown and this applied almost equally to both normal deliveries and caesarian sections and was also quite consistent across both public and private hospitals, the report stated. Among demographic groups, women, younger and older populations (under 20 and over 60) reduced their utilisation more than men, young adults or the middle-aged. According to the report, the weekly nationwide PMJAY claim volume during the first week of the lockdown was 64 per cent lower than just two weeks earlier, the analysis showed. "The decline in average weekly claim volume was 51 per cent if the 10-week lockdown period (March 25 to June 2) is compared to the 12 weeks that preceded lockdown (January 1 to March 24)," the report said. "There was a steeper decline in utilisation of public hospitals (67 perccent from week 11 to 13) than private hospitals (58 perccent), resulting in a shift in the private share of total volumes from 47 per cent before the lockdown to 51 per cent after the lockdown," it stated. This trend, which became even stronger late in the lockdown, may reflect several factors, researchers stated. First, beneficiaries might be avoiding public hospitals due to a perception that they are becoming 'COVID hospitals', since government facilities have been the focus of preparedness efforts for a potentially increasing COVID-19 caseload. Secondly, government hospitals might be too busy with these preparations to carry out tasks related to pre-authorisation and claim submission as required by PM-JAY. Third, the shift towards private hospitals might reflect their case mix -- in particular, hemodialysis care accounts for a large share of PM-JAY claims and is predominantly provided in the private sector, and the decline in claim volumes for these packages was far lower than for other types of care, the report stated. Also, there was wide variation in claim volume trends across states, with the steepest declines (over 75 per cent) in Assam, Maharashtra and Bihar, while much smaller declines (about 25 per cent or less) were observed in Uttarakhand, Punjab and Kerala. PLB KJ KJ

You Searched For "Ayushman Bharat" and got 13 results

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