National Current Affairs - 2026-08-20

Background: The Indian government has been committed to achieving universal health coverage through various initiatives. The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) is a flagship scheme providing health insurance to vulnerable families. Current Context: On August 19, 2026, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched the 'Ayushman Bhav' campaign. This nationwide initiative aims to ensure saturation coverage of all AB-PMJAY beneficiaries and provide health services to every citizen. It focuses on reaching every village and town, integrating services at Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs), Primary Health Centres (PHCs), and Community Health Centres (CHCs). Impact: The campaign is expected to significantly improve access to healthcare services, enhance health awareness, and ensure that eligible beneficiaries receive their Ayushman Cards and avail of healthcare benefits without any barriers. It also includes components like 'Ayushman Apke Dwar 2.0' for doorstep service delivery and 'Ayushman Mela' for health promotion and screening.

Background: The National Health Mission (NHM) encompasses two sub-missions: the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) and the National Urban Health Mission (NUHM), aimed at addressing the health needs of rural and urban populations respectively. Maternal and child health are key focus areas. Current Context: A high-level review meeting of the National Health Mission was held on August 20, 2026, to assess the progress made in improving maternal and child health indicators across the country. Officials discussed the implementation status of various programs like Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK) and Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA). Impact: The review highlighted areas requiring intensified efforts, such as reducing infant mortality rates and improving institutional delivery rates. The findings will guide the NHM in strategizing for the upcoming fiscal year, ensuring better resource allocation and targeted interventions to further strengthen maternal and child healthcare services nationwide.