West Bengal is set to officially launch the Centre's 'Ayushman Bharat' health scheme across the state from August 16, raising questions over whether the existing 'Swasthya Sathi' scheme will now be discontinued. 

However, the state administration has clarified that 'Swasthya Sathi' will not be stopped immediately. The card will remain fully valid until 'Ayushman Bharat' is completely and permanently implemented across West Bengal.

The 'Ayushman Bharat' scheme will be formally launched from Kolkata's Netaji Indoor Stadium on Sunday, August 16.

Ahead of the rollout, the administration has held high-level meetings with private hospitals to ensure the new healthcare system is implemented smoothly.

Administrative sources said the scheme may not be available in full across the state from the first day itself.

Some technical and operational difficulties are expected during the initial phase, officials said, adding that these issues are likely to be resolved gradually.

Special training for personnel involved in implementing the new system will begin from Friday.

The administration has also directed all private hospitals to continue accepting 'Swasthya Sathi' cards alongside 'Ayushman Bharat'. The existing scheme will therefore continue during the transition period.

Once 'Ayushman Bharat' is fully operational across West Bengal, the new system will gradually replace the existing 'Swasthya Sathi' arrangement.