Narendra Modi quotes: 5 things PM said on launch of Ayushman Bharat scheme

1. PM Narendra Modi: "PMJAY-Ayushman Bharat is the biggest government-sponsored healthcare scheme in the world. The number of beneficiaries is almost equal to the population of Canada, Mexico and the US taken together. A total of 13,000 hospitals have become a part of the Ayushman Bharat scheme."

2. PM  Modi: "We have been listening to the garibi hatao (get rid of poverty) slogan, but it was just an attempt to hoodwink the poor. If the (welfare) schemes were implemented, as promised, the poor in the country would have been better off today".

3. PM Modi: "I have seen and lived the life of a poor, so I know the importance of self-respect and dignity in their lives. I am trying my best to fulfill their dreams and protect their dignity. It is the BJP government that is focused on empowering them (poor people)."

4. PM Modi: "The programme will not differentiate between people, based on religion, caste, location. Every eligible person will be able to avail of the benefits. Our government has taken a holistic approach to lay stress on affordable and preventive healthcare."

5. PM Modi: "I hope and pray that the poor don't have to visit hospitals, but, if they do, the Ayushman cover will be at their service. The poor of my country must get all facilities that the rich enjoy. One does not need to register for the initiative. A health card would be provided to the beneficiaries for availing of the benefits. A toll-free number will also be made available to the people for finding out more about the scheme."