Under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, the Union Government has made a historic decision by extending health coverage to all individuals aged 70 and above (AB PM-JAY). Six crore elderly people and 4.5 crore families are anticipated to gain from this program nationally.
Under the direction of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union Cabinet declared that the health plan would offer ₹5 lakh in free coverage per family each year. All older persons are covered, regardless of their financial situation. In addition, families that currently have AB PM-JAY coverage for elderly adults aged 70 and above would get a special top-up of ₹5 lakh, preventing them from having to share coverage with family members who are younger than 70.
Seniors who meet the criteria for being eligible will receive a new, distinct health card as part of this program, giving them simple access to healthcare across the nation. Individuals who are currently registered in other public health insurance plans, such as the Ayushman Central Armed Police Force (CAPF), Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), or Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), may choose to transfer to AB PM-JAY or remain with their present plan.
With improved access to healthcare and a reduction in the financial burden of healthcare bills for senior folks, this move seeks to improve health security for India’s ageing population.