Now Reading: Bengal tells WBHS beneficiaries to surrender other health cards
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Bengal tells WBHS beneficiaries to surrender other health cards
The West Bengal government on Friday, 9 October 2026, directed all employees and pensioners enrolled under the West Bengal Health Scheme (WBHS) to surrender any Swasthya Sathi or Ayushman Bharat cards they or their family members hold.
A finance department notification said the cards must be surrendered and a declaration in the prescribed format submitted by 31 October 2026. It warned that failure to comply would invite strict administrative action.
The notification stated that non-compliance would lead to temporary suspension of all medical benefits under WBHS and, for employees, would constitute misconduct triggering immediate disciplinary proceedings under applicable Service Rules.
Indian Opinion Analysis
The order forces WBHS beneficiaries to choose between the state scheme and central or state-sponsored health cards. Swasthya Sathi is Bengal's own flagship health assurance scheme, while Ayushman Bharat is the central government's national programme. By mandating surrender of other cards, the state effectively blocks dual coverage for its employees. The deadline of 31 October 2026 leaves beneficiaries less than a month to comply, with suspension of medical benefits and disciplinary action as penalties for non-compliance.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
This brief was synthesised by AI from the source linked above. Methodology and corrections.
