In a significant step toward improving geriatric care in India, the cabinet has approved universal health coverage for senior citizens. Announced on Wednesday, individuals aged 70 and above, regardless of income, will now be covered under the flagship Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY).
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had first announced this expansion of health insurance for seniors aged 70 and above in April.
Coverage Overview: The plan offers free health insurance of up to ₹5 lakh per year per family, benefiting 4.5 crore families and around 6 crore senior citizens.
New AB PM-JAY Cards: Eligible senior citizens will receive a special card under the AB PM-JAY scheme.
Additional Coverage for Seniors: Those aged 70 and above already enrolled in AB PM-JAY will receive an additional top-up of up to ₹25 lakh per year.
Health Insurance Options: Senior citizens aged 70 and above, currently enrolled in other public health insurance schemes, have the option to either retain their existing plan or switch to AB PM-JAY.
This initiative aims to provide health insurance coverage of ₹5 lakh per family to approximately 4.5 crore families, benefiting nearly 6 crore senior citizens.
“All senior citizens aged 70 and above, regardless of their socio-economic status, will be eligible for benefits under AB PM-JAY. Eligible individuals will receive a special card distinct to the scheme. Additionally, senior citizens aged 70 and above, from families already covered under AB PM-JAY, will receive an extra top-up of up to ₹5 lakh per year,” according to a government press release.
Senior citizens aged 70 and above will be provided health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per year on a family basis. Those already enrolled in other public health insurance schemes, such as the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), or Ayushman Central Armed Police Force (CAPF), can either retain their current coverage or switch to AB PM-JAY.
The new provisions will also extend coverage to seniors with private health insurance policies or those covered under Employees’ State Insurance schemes.
