Desk Correspondent , Kolkata - Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday hailed the rollout of Ayushman Bharat and other key Central welfare schemes in West Bengal, days after the BJP formed its first-ever government in the state under Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. Calling the welfare of Bengal’s people his “utmost priority”, Modi said the double-engine government would ensure the “seamless implementation” of major Central projects and affordable healthcare benefits across the state.

The announcement came after the new Bengal cabinet, in its first meeting on Monday, approved the implementation of flagship schemes including Ayushman Bharat, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, PM Fasal Bima Yojana, and PM Vishwakarma. Adhikari clarified that existing state-run schemes such as Swasthya Sathi and Lakshmir Bhandar would continue alongside the Centre’s initiatives, though questions remain over how overlapping beneficiaries will be managed.

Ahead of the Assembly elections, Modi had promised that a BJP government in Bengal would clear Ayushman Bharat in its very first cabinet meeting. The health scheme offers eligible families insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh annually. Adhikari, who took oath on Saturday, scripted history by becoming the first BJP leader to end the All India Trinamool Congress’s 15-year rule in the state.