Over 63,000 Children Benefit from Bengal’s ‘Sishu Sathi’ Scheme, Over Rs 300 Crore Spent Since 2013

Agencies, Kolkata, Nov 7, 2025:  The Mamata Banerjee-led government in West Bengal has provided free treatment to more than 63,000 children suffering from congenital heart diseases and other critical ailments through the state's flagship “Sishu Sathi” scheme. Since its launch in 2013, the government has allocated over Rs 300 crore to ensure that these children receive proper medical care, particularly in government and select private hospitals.

The Chief Minister took to social media on Thursday to announce the milestone, stating: “GoWB is always committed to the best healthcare for our children. ‘Sishu Saathi’ program, a flagship initiative launched in 2013, has provided free-of-cost treatment for Congenital Heart Disease, Cleft Lip/Palate, Clubfoot, and Neural Tube Defect to 63,000+ children with an expenditure of Rs. 300 Cr+ to ensure no child is left behind!”

The “Sishu Sathi” scheme, introduced in August 2013, is designed to provide free treatment for children under the age of 12 suffering from congenital heart defects, cleft lip/palate, clubfoot, and neural tube defects. This initiative allows for surgeries to be performed at no cost in government hospitals with paediatric facilities, as well as select private hospitals.

The scheme covers the entire cost of treatment, including surgeries, with the state health department bearing all expenses. Since its inception, it has significantly benefitted children, especially from rural areas, who previously had limited access to specialized medical care. The free surgeries provided under the scheme have been particularly impactful, with government hospitals and some private institutions carrying out these critical procedures.

According to government sources, the implementation of the "Sishu Sathi" scheme has also contributed to a reduction in the infant mortality rate in the state over the past year. The initiative has helped bring healthcare to children who might otherwise have been unable to afford the expensive treatments required to address congenital heart diseases and other serious medical conditions.

However, the scheme has not been without challenges. It was reported that the Central government stopped funding the "Sishu Sathi" scheme, which led to the Bengal Chief Minister taking immediate action to secure emergency funds to keep the program running. Despite the loss of central financial support, Banerjee ensured that the initiative continued to operate, making sure no child in need was left behind.

The “Sishu Sathi” scheme is a critical component of Banerjee’s broader efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure in West Bengal. Since taking office, she has made healthcare one of her government’s key priorities, launching numerous health initiatives and expanding facilities at state-run hospitals to improve medical services for the population.

With over 63,000 children benefiting from this free treatment, the "Sishu Sathi" scheme has become one of the most successful healthcare initiatives in the state, providing crucial surgeries and medical care to vulnerable children who otherwise might not have had access to such life-saving treatments.