Tamil Nadu Raises Health Insurance Cover to Rs 25 Lakh

The Tamil Nadu government announced a major expansion of healthcare services on Wednesday, including a new 400-bed multispeciality hospital in Perambur and a fivefold increase in the annual coverage limit under the state's health insurance scheme. Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay outlined the initiatives in the Assembly, emphasizing that medical care is a fundamental right and not a privilege.

The centerpiece of the announcement is the establishment of a 400-bed multisuper speciality hospital in Perambur, the constituency of the Chief Minister. The facility, estimated to cost Rs 300 crore, aims to provide high-quality specialized medical services to residents of North Chennai, where access to advanced government healthcare has long been a concern. The move was welcomed by local groups, with the Federation of North Chennai Residents Welfare Associations calling it a victory for the collective efforts of the people.

A significant expansion of the Chief Minister's Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme was also declared. The annual coverage limit for beneficiaries will be raised from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 25 lakh. Furthermore, the scheme will now cover medical and surgical procedures for...