In a major step to enhance healthcare for India’s elderly population, the Union Cabinet has approved the expansion of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) to include senior citizens aged 70 and above. This announcement, made on September 11, 2024, delivers on a key campaign promise by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Coverage Overview:
- Insurance Limit: The new plan provides free health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per year on a family basis.
- Beneficiaries: Approximately 4.5 crore families and 6 crore senior citizens will benefit from this expansion.
- New Cards: Eligible seniors will receive a special AB PM-JAY card.
Additional Benefits:
- Top-Up Coverage: Seniors already covered under AB PM-JAY will receive an additional top-up of up to ₹5 lakh per year.
- Existing Schemes: Seniors using other public health insurance schemes (CGHS, ECHS, Ayushman CAPF) can continue their current plan or switch to AB PM-JAY.
- Private Insurance Holders: Those with private health insurance or Employees’ State Insurance are also eligible for the benefits under AB PM-JAY.
The new measures are designed to provide comprehensive healthcare support to the elderly, addressing the growing need for geriatric care in India.