Mizoram launches upgraded universal healthcare scheme, 24×7 call centre

Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Monday launched the upgraded version of the Mizoram Universal Health Care Scheme and a dedicated round-the-clock call centre.

The new version of the scheme, set to come into effect from April 1, introduces stricter emergency protocols and expanded funding.

Speaking at the launch, Lalduhoma said even though substantial financial resources have been invested, the tangible benefits to the people has encouraged the government to continue the scheme.

“The state government remains committed to continuing and strengthening the healthcare scheme despite the significant expenditure,” he said.

The CM said Rs 130 crore has been allocated in the 2026-27 budget for the implementation of MUHCS, supplemented by Rs 26.42 crore in contributions from government employees.

A loan of over Rs 800 crore has been secured from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to ensure the long-term sustainability of the state’s universal health coverage, he said.

According to him, a key policy shift under MUHCS 2.0 is the tightening of “emergency care” provisions.

He said that treatment at non-empanelled hospitals will now be strictly limited to three specific categories – immediate ICU admissions, urgent life-saving surgeries, and immediate surgeries necessitated by accidents.

The chief minister urged the public to complete registrations before April 15.

The MUHCS was launched in March last year and became operational on April 1.

The scheme provides up to Rs 5 lakh in annual coverage for cashless treatment at government facilities, as well as empanelled private and church-run hospitals.

More than 2.88 lakh families enrolled as beneficiaries in the first phase, officials said.