Gujarat Launches Rs.2 Crore Health Scheme for Tribal Organ Transplants, Robotic Surgeries

GANDHINAGAR :  In a major healthcare boost for Gujarat’s tribal communities, the state government has launched a dedicated ₹2 crore financial assistance scheme to help Scheduled Tribe (ST) patients undergo costly organ transplants and advanced robotic surgeries. The initiative aims to ensure that no tribal family is deprived of life-saving treatment because of financial constraints.

The new scheme, announced under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, will provide up to ₹3 lakh in additional financial assistance after the benefits available under Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY or the Mukhyamantri Amrutam (MA) Card have been exhausted. The allocation has been made for the 2026-27 financial year.

The Tribal Development Department, headed by Minister Nareshbhai Patel and Minister of State P. C. Baranda, has granted administrative approval for implementing the programme.

The scheme, officially titled “Scheme to Provide Assistance for Organ Transplants of Kidney, Liver, Heart, Pancreas, etc., and for Operations Including Robotic Surgeries for Patients Belonging to the Scheduled Tribe Community of the State,” covers complex procedures such as kidney, liver, heart and pancreas transplants, along with advanced robotic surgeries for serious illnesses.

The Institute of Kidney Diseases and Research Centre (IKDRC) at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital has been designated as the nodal agency for implementing the programme and approving eligible cases.

Explaining the scheme, the government said that if an organ transplant at IKDRC costs ₹6 lakh and ₹3 lakh is covered under PMJAY, the remaining ₹3 lakh will be paid under the new tribal welfare scheme. Even if treatment is undertaken at a private hospital, assistance will be limited to the approved government treatment cost after deducting PMJAY benefits.

Officials said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to advanced healthcare for vulnerable communities.

“The scheme has been designed to provide financial protection against life-threatening diseases and ensure that tribal patients receive timely access to advanced medical treatment without facing economic hardship,” the government stated.

To avail the benefit, applicants must belong to the Scheduled Tribe community in Gujarat, possess a valid caste certificate and hold a PMJAY or MA Card. Patients must first approach IKDRC, whose Transplant Committee will provide mandatory medical approval before treatment. The financial assistance is available only to the tribal recipient, irrespective of the donor’s community.

The government has also incorporated strict transparency measures. The entire application and approval process will be conducted online, while funds will be released through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) or the Chief Minister’s Dashboard Portal. Regular social audits and third-party verification will be carried out to ensure accountability and prevent misuse of public funds.

The initiative is expected to significantly improve access to advanced healthcare services for economically weaker tribal families across Gujarat while strengthening the state’s social welfare framework.