Suvendu Govt Replaces Mamata's 'Khela Hobey Divas' With 'Ayushman Divas'

The West Bengal government has announced a major symbolic and policy shift by replacing ‘Khela Hobey Divas’ with ‘Ayushman Divas’ on August 16. The decision comes as the new BJP-led government completes 100 days in office and signals a change in priorities from political symbolism to welfare-focused governance.The announcement was made after a party organisational meeting, with the government stating that August 16 will also mark the rollout of the Centre’s Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme in the state. The date has been chosen for its historical significance, as it marks the anniversary of the 1946 Direct Action Day, which led to the Great Calcutta Killings, one of the deadliest communal riots in pre-Independence India.The Chief Minister said the new observance will focus on providing healthcare access, especially to the elderly and economically weaker sections. Citizens above 70 years will automatically receive benefits, while others will be covered under central and state health schemes. The move also carries political undertones, drawing a contrast with the previous regime’s ‘Khela Hobey Divas’, which had become associated with political mobilisation over time.