Mann Govt's ‘Aam Aadmi Clinics’: Free Medicines And Tests To Be Available In Jails Too

Punjab: Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab’s Aam Aadmi Clinics (AACs) have already brought a new revolution in the state’s healthcare system, and now this historic initiative is set to reach beyond the high walls of prisons as well. With more than 4.20 crore patients successfully treated and over 73,000 people receiving free healthcare services daily, the Mann Government has once again proven that its intent and policies are genuinely dedicated to the welfare of the common people.

What is Bhagwant Mann govt's latest announcement related to Aam Aadmi Clinics?

In a landmark decision, the Mann Government is moving towards establishing Aam Aadmi Clinics inside all 10 central jails of Punjab. This is not merely a healthcare initiative but a reflection of the government’s “Sevak” philosophy, that every citizen, whether free or incarcerated, deserves free and quality healthcare. The establishment of AACs in prisons is a significant step toward curbing overcrowding-related health risks and controlling the spread of diseases such as Hepatitis C, HIV, and Tuberculosis among inmates. Although Punjab’s Health Department already deploys 24x7 medical officers in all prisons, this new initiative will further strengthen the existing healthcare infrastructure and extend specialized services to inmates.

How is the process operating?  

The Health Department has already begun identifying spaces within prisons where these clinics will operate. Prisoners will be provided with 107 types of free medicines and 47 types of free diagnostic tests, bringing an unprecedented improvement in prison healthcare standards. This will ensure timely treatment and preventive care for thousands of inmates, addressing long-neglected health concerns within the prison system.

What is the latest initiatives of AAP related to Aam Aadmi Clinics? 

Currently, Punjab has 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics functioning successfully, and the government has recently issued tenders for 236 new clinics, which will soon become operational. With this expansion, the total number of AACs in the state will rise to approximately 1,117 clinics. The growing public trust in these centers clearly reflects a massive transformation in Punjab’s public healthcare system. Earlier, people from rural and underprivileged backgrounds had to travel long distances to hospitals even for minor ailments, but now, they are receiving free, high-quality healthcare services right in their neighborhoods and villages.

What are Bhagwant Mann govt's health initiatives?

This initiative has relieved lakhs of poor families from the financial burden of expensive medical treatment. Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the government has made it clear that “Good Health” is not just a slogan but its topmost priority. The extension of this program to prisons symbolizes the government’s deep commitment to reaching even the most marginalized and invisible sections of society.

What is this model all about?

This move will not only improve healthcare services inside jails but also serve as a milestone toward building a humane and equitable governance model. By ensuring that even prisoners receive dignity and access to healthcare, the Mann Government has redefined what inclusive governance truly means.

Through such transformative steps, Punjab under the Mann Government is steadily emerging as a national leader in public health reform, setting a benchmark for compassionate, efficient, and accessible healthcare for all.