Haryana Government Prioritizes Healthcare and Rural Development in Budget Session
The Haryana government, during the fifth day of the budget session of the Assembly on Thursday, emphasized its commitment to strengthening healthcare services and enhancing rural infrastructure across the state. Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini highlighted ongoing efforts to provide better healthcare facilities to citizens, with a focus on modernizing district-level hospitals.
Upgrading District Hospitals with Advanced Medical Equipment
Chief Minister Saini stated that the state government is rapidly upgrading district hospitals by equipping them with state-of-the-art facilities. These enhancements include the installation of CT scans, MRI machines, digital X-rays, modern laboratories, ultrasound equipment, and private wards. The goal is to offer comprehensive healthcare services to residents, ensuring access to advanced diagnostic and treatment options.
Progress Report: To date, 10 district hospitals have already been upgraded and dedicated to the public, with others currently in the process of enhancement. This initiative aims to reduce the need for patients to travel to urban centers for specialized medical care.
Expansion of Ayushman Bharat-Chirayu Haryana Scheme
Health and Family Welfare Minister Aarti Singh Rao provided details on the Ayushman Scheme, which is being strengthened to improve healthcare accessibility. The scheme offers approximately 2,694 treatment packages covering surgical procedures, day-care treatments, medicines, and diagnostic tests.
Key Statistics: As of February 20, 2026, the total number of active Ayushman cards in Haryana stands at 1,38,47,905. All treatment packages were made available during January 2024, October 2024, and January 2026. For treatments not included in these packages, an "unspecified" category has been established in empanelled hospitals to ensure coverage.
Additionally, Minister Rao announced the setting up of a cath lab at Kalpana Chawla Hospital in Karnal, further enhancing cardiac care services in the region.
Smart Villages Initiative for Rural Development
In a move to improve rural infrastructure, Haryana Development and Panchayat Minister Krishan Lal Panwar introduced the 'Smart Gali' scheme. This initiative aims to develop clean and well-organized streets in villages, similar to those in cities.
- Targeted Villages: 111 villages across the state with populations over 10,000 have been identified for this scheme, including Badli village in the Badli Assembly constituency.
- Funding: An amount of Rs 1,19,39,000 will be allocated for developing a 'Smart Gali' in Badli village, setting a precedent for future projects.
Drinking Water Supply and Mahagram Status
Haryana Public Health Engineering Minister Ranbir Gangwa reiterated the government's commitment to the 'Har Ghar Nal Se Jaal' initiative, ensuring tap water reaches every household. Recent efforts include preparing drinking water supply plans for 25 regular colonies in Jhajjar, with estimates completed for these projects.
Minister Krishna Lal Panwar also announced the 'Mahagram' status for villages with over 10,000 residents, addressing population growth in rural areas. These Mahagrams will receive urban-style sewerage systems and essential infrastructure to elevate the quality of rural life.
Urban Development Challenges in Tauru
Haryana Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Krishan Kumar Bedi addressed the development of Haryana Shehri Vikas Pradhikaran (HSVP) sectors in Tauru. In 2013, 367.86 acres of land were acquired for Sectors 7, 8, and 11.
- Current Status: A portion of Sector 11, covering 66 acres with 362 plots, has been developed by HSVP.
- Challenges: Despite three e-auctions, an adequate response was not received, and no plots could be allotted, halting development in Sectors 7 and 8 and the remaining part of Sector 11.
The budget session continues to showcase Haryana's multifaceted approach to improving healthcare, rural development, and urban planning, with a clear focus on citizen welfare and infrastructure modernization.
