Shimla, March 31 -- Himachal Pradesh chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday clarified that robotic surgery is not currently covered under Ayushman Bharat or Himcare schemes.

"Presently there are no provisions of robotic surgery in Ayushman Bharat or under Himcare, as packages are determined by the Centre," said Sukhu.

CM's reply came to the query raised during question hour over the introduction of robotic surgery facilities in government medical institutions, with the Opposition questioning its affordability, preparedness and accessibility for poor patients.

Raising concerns, members pointed out that robotic surgery-being introduced in institutions such as Chamiyana, Tanda, IGMC Shimla and Nerchowk-remains largely inaccessibl...