Pakistan Extends Universal Health Coverage to AJK, GB, and ICT
The Pakistani goverment has approved a Rs40.188 billion (approximately $142.5 million USD as of January 16, 2026) extension of the Sehat Sahulat Program to provide universal health coverage in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), and the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) until June 30, 2027. The decision, made on January 16, 2026, aims to ensure access to quality healthcare for all residents of these regions.
Background of the Sehat Sahulat Programme
Originally launched on February 7, 2018, the Sehat Sahulat Programme initially provided health coverage for three years. It was later extended to seven years, ending in June 2025, and subsequently devolved to the provinces. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved the continuation of the programme beyond June 30, 2025, specifically for AJK, GB, and ICT, recognizing the need for sustained healthcare access in these federal territories. Dawn reported on the initial approval.
Key Features of the Extended Programme
The revised programme, a component of the Uraan Pakistan social sector initiative, focuses on improving public health outcomes by expanding coverage of secondary and priority inpatient treatments. It will provide health insurance coverage for indoor healthcare services to all permanent resident families in the covered districts,as verified by Nadra (National Database and Registration Authority) records. This is expected to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenses and catastrophic health expenditures related to hospitalization by up to 60 percent.
Addressing Past Concerns and Reverting to Original Intent
planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal highlighted concerns regarding previous modifications to the program. He noted that the original intent, established in 2015 by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, was to provide 100% health coverage to the poor and deserving families. Iqbal criticized subsequent expansions that included affluent segments, leading to resource misuse and reduced access for those moast in need. As a result, the program will be renamed to its original title, the Prime Minister’s National Health Programme, to refocus resources on vulnerable populations and strengthen the social safety net.
Broader Health Sector Projects
The Sehat Sahulat Programme extension was one of five health sector projects, totaling Rs79.35 billion,approved by the Central Growth Working Party (CDWP).Other projects included a revised plan for Polyclinic-II in Islamabad. The projects now await formal approval from the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec). Dawn provides further details on the approved projects.
impact and Future Outlook
This extension of the Sehat Sahulat Programme represents a notable investment in the health and well-being of residents in AJK, GB, and ICT.By ensuring access to affordable and quality healthcare,the government aims to reduce financial hardship caused by medical expenses and improve overall public health outcomes. The program’s renewed focus on vulnerable populations is expected to maximize its impact and ensure that resources are directed where thay are most needed.
Key Takeaways
- The Sehat Sahulat Programme has been extended to AJK, GB, and ICT until June 30, 2027, with a budget of Rs40.188 billion.
- The program aims to provide universal health coverage, reducing out-of-pocket expenses by up to 60%.
- The program is being refocused on its original goal of serving the poor and vulnerable populations.
- The extension is part of a larger Rs79.35 billion investment in health sector projects.
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