New Delhi: The Union Cabinet has approved a significant expansion of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), extending health coverage to all senior citizens aged 70 and above, regardless of income.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the decision at a press briefing following the Cabinet meeting this evening. He described the move as a major step forward, highlighting that it will provide free treatment coverage up to Rs 5 lakh per year for eligible seniors.
The new initiative is expected to benefit approximately 6 crore senior citizens across about 4.5 crore families in India.
Under the updated scheme, seniors aged 70 and older will receive a new, distinct card under AB PM-JAY. Those already covered under AB PM-JAY will receive an additional top-up of up to Rs 5 lakh per year specifically for themselves. Seniors from families not currently covered under the scheme will also receive up to Rs 5 lakh in coverage per year, applicable on a family basis.
Additionally, seniors aged 70 and above who are currently enrolled in other public health insurance schemes, such as the Central Government Health Scheme, Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme, or Ayushman Central Armed Police Force, will have the option to either continue with their existing scheme or transition to AB PM-JAY.
Seniors with private health insurance or those covered under the Employees’ State Insurance scheme will also be eligible for benefits under AB PM-JAY.
