PM Launches Ayushman Bharat for Citizens Over 70: Everything You Need to Know

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has introduced health cards under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) to extend health coverage to individuals aged 70 and above, regardless of their income or economic background.

The Ayushman Vaya Vandana card represents the launch of this enhanced scheme, which aims to transform public healthcare in India. With this initiative, the rapidly growing elderly population can now access medical treatment that was previously unaffordable due to high expenses.

Every individual aged 70 or older will be entitled to an annual coverage of Rs 5 lakh, which can be shared among family members. For instance, if there are two elderly beneficiaries in a household, the coverage amount will be divided between them.

“The elderly, who have always worried about their healthcare expenses, can now live with dignity,” stated Modi. The scheme will be implemented nationwide, excluding Delhi and Bengal, as these states have not adopted Ayushman Bharat.

The Prime Minister also unveiled the nationwide launch of the U-WIN portal, aimed at digitizing routine vaccinations.

How can one sign up?

To access health coverage, individuals must register on the PM-JAY portal or the Ayushman app. Those who already possess an Ayushman card will need to reapply through the portal or app and complete their eKYC to obtain a new card.

Why is this scheme important?

Providing universal health coverage for individuals aged 70 and above is crucial, especially as India’s population ages. According to the 2011 census, only 8.6 percent of India’s population was over 60 years old. This figure is projected to rise to 19.5 percent by 2050, as per the government’s Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI). 

In numerical terms, the population of Indians over 60 is expected to reach 319 million by 2050, more than tripling from 103 million in 2011.

“While the Ayushman Bharat initiative aimed for universal health coverage, this will mark the first age group to receive comprehensive coverage.

How many individuals are included?

The scheme will provide coverage for nearly 6 crore individuals from 4.5 crore families, with 1.78 crore already enrolled in the program.

Among the remaining beneficiaries, approximately 80 lakh people are covered under various government health programs, such as the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme, or coverage for family members of defense and railway personnel.

Can those enrolled in other health schemes participate in this program?

Individuals enrolled in existing government health schemes will have the option to choose between Ayushman Bharat or retaining their current coverage.

However, individuals covered under the Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) will be eligible for both their existing coverage and Ayushman Bharat, as ESIC premiums are paid by the insured and their employer, rather than the government. People with privately purchased insurance will also qualify for Ayushman Bharat coverage.

How will the overlapping coverages work?

Members aged 70 and above in families already covered based on their economic status will receive an additional cover of Rs 5 lakh specifically for elderly beneficiaries. These individuals will need to re-register to obtain the additional coverage.

What will be the financial implications for the government to implement this health coverage?

The initial financial commitment from the Centre for expanding the scheme will be Rs 3,437 crore. This amount will fund the program for the last six months of the current financial year and throughout the next year, according to officials.