Raipur, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Thursday inaugurated a five-day free mega health camp at the Government Ayurvedic College premises to mark the birth anniversary of social reformer Baba Guru Ghasidas. The camp, scheduled from 18 to 22 December, is a large-scale humanitarian initiative focused on social harmony and public health awareness.

Extending greetings to the people of Chhattisgarh, the Chief Minister described the camp as a “Sanjeevani” for the well-being of thousands of citizens. He noted that as Chhattisgarh enters its silver jubilee year, the state has made significant progress in the healthcare sector over the past 25 years.

The Chief Minister highlighted flagship schemes, stating that Ayushman Bharat has ensured quality healthcare for the poorest sections. He also referred to the Mukhyamantri Vishesh Swasthya Sahayta Yojana, which provides financial assistance of up to ₹25 lakh for treating serious ailments. Emphasising preventive healthcare, he said “health is wealth” remains a core commitment of his government.

Assembly Speaker Dr Raman Singh, addressing the gathering, called the initiative a living expression of compassion and social responsibility. Drawing inspiration from Baba Guru Ghasidas’s ideals of equality, he noted that over 100 specialist doctors are participating to provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment.

Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal termed the event a “health Mahakumbh,” stating that patients requiring advanced care beyond the camp’s scope will receive free treatment at empanelled hospitals via Ayushman cards. He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to further strengthen medical infrastructure across the state.

Raipur West MLA Rajesh Munat, the primary organiser, said the camp embodies the message “Manakhe-Manakhe Ek Samaan” (All humans are equal). He informed that services including X-ray, echo, sonography, and diagnostic tests are being provided free of cost. Special arrangements for breast cancer screening have also been made for women.

Renowned institutions including AIIMS Raipur, Balaji, and Rawatpura, along with medical experts from across the country, are participating in the initiative.

The inaugural ceremony was attended by Ministers Kedar Kashyap, Dayaldas Baghel, and Guru Khushwant Saheb, along with Raipur Mayor Meenal Choubey, AIIMS Raipur Director Dr Ashok Jindal, and several senior public representatives.