Daijiworld Media Network - Hoshiarpur

Hoshiarpur, May 4: A 65-year-old woman from Panwa village in Punjab’s Hoshiarpur district has successfully undergone a free knee replacement surgery under the State government’s healthcare initiative, bringing relief after years of chronic pain.

Kewal Kaur, who had been suffering from severe knee pain for nearly five years, received treatment under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana. The surgery, which would have otherwise cost around Rs 1.5 lakh, was performed free of cost at Punjab Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), Jalandhar.

Her son, Mandeep Singh, a farmer, said the family had consulted several doctors over the years, but her condition deteriorated to the point where she could not walk without support. “When my mother became completely dependent, surgery was our only hope,” he said.

Mandeep came to know about the scheme through a newspaper and registered for a health card. Following hospital formalities, the surgery was carried out on April 17 by Dr Anit Sachar and his team in a procedure lasting around two hours.

Post-surgery, Kewal Kaur is recovering steadily. While stitches are yet to be removed, her pain has significantly reduced, and she is gradually regaining mobility.

Overwhelmed with emotion, Kewal Kaur expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, calling him her “third son”. “My operation was done without spending a single rupee. I am no longer a burden on anyone. Life will be easier now,” she said.

Mandeep noted that around five other elderly patients from Mohali, Hoshiarpur, and nearby areas also underwent similar procedures under the scheme. Except for about Rs 2,400 spent on initial tests, the entire treatment was free.

He added that the scheme, which offers free treatment up to Rs 10 lakh, has proven to be a major support for middle- and lower-income families, restoring not just health but also dignity and independence.