Bengaluru, February 25: Amid criticism from the BJP that the Congress government’s five guarantees are pushing Karnataka towards bankruptcy, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar addressed the ‘Kusuma Sanjeevini’ initiative. This program provides preventive treatment for hemophilia patients. He acknowledged that while these schemes may be burdensome, the government aims to ensure that financial difficulties do not lead to mental stress for the people.
Shivakumar made these remarks during an event at the Nehru Planetarium in Bengaluru, where he inaugurated preventive treatment for hemophilia patients and the 108 ambulance service under the Kusuma Sanjeevini initiative. He stated that the five guarantees include free bus services for women, free electricity, and financial assistance of ₹2,000. Despite the burden on the state government, these benefits have been implemented.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring that financial challenges do not cause mental stress for the populace. “If you have faith, people will come forward for help,” he said. The government has decided to foster financial confidence and mental strength among citizens to help them become financially stable.
Discussing hemophilia, Shivakumar described it as a serious condition, noting the presence of patients, researchers, and doctors at the event. “This is a significant day. We believe that your life should be strong. No child or individual wishes to face such illnesses; it is a natural occurrence. It is not the fault of children or their parents. We must accept this,” he stated. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao revealed that the cost of one injection is approximately ₹50,000 monthly, with an annual expense of around ₹5 lakh per patient. “Let the expenses be; that is not the issue. Those suffering from this disease should not feel helpless. Considering the financial struggles of parents, the government has decided to intervene,” he added.
He further mentioned that the Health Minister had presented a proposal to the cabinet, which was approved. “It does not matter which government is executing this; Karnataka should lead, and we have made this decision.” Shivakumar, a former Medical Education Minister, highlighted Karnataka’s leadership in medical education. “You can go anywhere in the country and find our doctors excelling. Each year, we produce 13,940 doctors, including over 3,000 postgraduates. Karnataka is the only state with nearly 70 medical colleges, with at least one in every district.”
He also noted that over 100,000 paramedical staff receive training in the state. “When I was in charge, I granted permission generously. Today, young men and women from Kerala and Assam come here for training and later settle abroad. Serving humanity is our government’s greatest commitment.” He urged patients not to lose hope, stating that nothing is impossible. “God provides opportunities; they are neither gifts nor curses. Our Health Department is bringing a revolution to the healthcare sector. Bring this government back to ensure continuous service,” he added. He assured that the government would never compromise on any demands from the Health Department.
Shivakumar concluded by reassuring parents that they no longer need to worry about spending ₹50,000 monthly on treatment. “Well-being comes from health. Your government stands with you at all times. Never lose hope. This Congress government will always be by your side.”
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