RANCHI: In a first for the state, Jharkhand is set to provide ministers, MLAs, former MLAs, and their families with healthcare facilities on the same lines as IAS and IPS officers. Sources in the state government say the health department has prepared a proposal, which will be submitted to the Cabinet for approval. Once approved, the new system will be implemented.
Currently, IAS and IPS officers receive medical facilities and reimbursement for medical expenses under the All-India Services (Medical Attendance) Rules, 1954. Based on this framework, reimbursements for medical expenses for MLAs and former MLAs will be administered by the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly Secretariat.
Health Minister Irfan Ansari stated that the plan was developed at the initiative of the Chief Minister. “In Jharkhand, an initiative has been taken to provide healthcare to ministers, MLAs, former MLAs, and their families on the same lines as IAS and IPS officers. Under the guidance of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Hemant Soren, a draft of the new regulations has been prepared and will soon be sent to the Cabinet for approval,” Ansari posted on social media platform X. He added that this will be a significant step in the health sector, ensuring better and more adequate medical care for public representatives and their families.
According to Ansari, the decision follows complaints from several MLAs regarding difficulties faced during treatment and inadequate coverage in hospitals. “Taking these issues seriously, after thorough study and deliberation, the decision was made to abolish the old system and implement the new regulations,” he said, adding that the move has the consent of Chief Minister Hemant Soren.
Notably, the state government already provides health insurance benefits to state government employees and lawyers. With the implementation of the new system, ministers, MLAs, and former MLAs will also have access to more comprehensive and effective healthcare services.
Ansari emphasised that it is his primary responsibility to ensure better health facilities for ministers, MLAs, former MLAs, and their families. “When the state health department provides proper medical facilities to IAS and IPS officers, similar arrangements should be made for ministers, MLAs, and former MLAs,” he said.
The minister explained that the move will address challenges faced by MLAs during treatment, including limited hospital facilities. After extensive study and consultation, the previous system has been replaced with this more comprehensive structure, marking a significant step in Jharkhand’s health sector reforms.