— CM Bhagwant Mann leads pioneering initiative for inmates’ physical and mental healthcare — Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh stresses holistic reform for a ‘Rangla Punjab’
Chandigarh, October 28
In a groundbreaking move, the Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab Government will establish Aam Aadmi Clinics inside Central Jails as a pilot project to deliver comprehensive, quality healthcare—including vital mental health support—to inmates.
Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh highlighted the initiative, stating: “Beyond treating physical ailments, mental well-being is crucial. Many inmates are mentally disturbed, which may contribute to criminal behavior.”
Calling jails ‘Sudhar Ghars’ (reform homes), Dr Singh emphasized that true justice means reformation. “Inmates must leave jail healthy in body and mind—this holistic approach aligns with CM Mann’s vision of a vibrant ‘Rangla Punjab’,” he added.
watch….236 Aam Aadmi Clinics: A New Era for Punjab’s Healthcare
Psychologists and psychiatrists will be deployed in these jail clinics to provide essential psychosocial counselling.
The expansion builds on the success of 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics statewide, which have:
- Provided free treatment to over 4.20 crore patients
- Conducted 2.29 crore free diagnostic tests since launch on August 15, 2022
These clinics offer 107 free medicines and 47 free diagnostic tests, including specialized screening for pregnancy, Hepatitis C, HIV/AIDS, and Dengue—ensuring accessible, high-quality care for all.
