Indian Government Approves Health Coverage for Senior Citizens Above 70
The Union Cabinet of India has given the green light to provide health coverage for all senior citizens aged 70 and above under the ‘Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana’ (AB PM-JAY) scheme. Around 60 million elderly individuals will receive approximately RO2,300 as health insurance cover on a family basis, making it the largest publicly funded health assurance scheme worldwide.
Key Features of the Scheme:
- Eligibility: All senior citizens aged 70 and above are eligible for Rs 5 lakh health coverage, regardless of income or social status.
- Top-up coverage: Senior members of families already enrolled in Ayushman Bharat will receive an extra Rs 5 lakh top-up for their personal use.
- Private insurance: Those with private health insurance can still benefit from the scheme without any conflicts.
- Public health schemes: Seniors under other public health schemes must choose between their current insurance and AB PM-JAY coverage.
- New health cards: Eligible senior citizens will receive separate health cards for easier access to benefits.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the initiative, affirming the government’s commitment to providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality healthcare to all citizens.