Haryana government starts free dialysis services for kidney patients

On October 18, 2024, Nayab Saini, the chief minister of Haryana, initiated a landmark healthcare policy by announcing that all government hospitals in the state would offer free dialysis services to chronic kidney disease patients. This decision came during Saini's first cabinet meeting after taking office, showcasing a clear focus on improving public health services. The need for such a program arises from the significant financial strain that chronic kidney conditions impose, with costs potentially reaching Rs 20,000 to Rs 25,000 monthly for patients. By eliminating these costs, the state government aims to enhance access to necessary medical care. Saini's commitment to healthcare follows numerous political promises made during the recent elections, where the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) sought to demonstrate its focus on the welfare of the people. The announcement was perceived as vital by the state's leadership, emphasizing their dedication to improving livelihood conditions for chronic illness sufferers. The chief minister's policies also reflect broader social concerns, as he seeks to implement the Supreme Court's directives related to classifications within Scheduled Castes for reservations. By addressing healthcare and social justice issues concurrently, Saini aims to validate the BJP's mandate from the electorate in the recent assembly elections. This significant healthcare initiative symbolizes the government's proactive approach to its responsibilities. It fulfills a crucial electoral promise while establishing a precedent for future healthcare policies designed to support vulnerable populations.