Ayushman Bharat to Launch Health Coverage for 70+ Citizens, Pilot Rollout in a Week

The Central government's Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (ABPM-JAY) scheme, providing health coverage to citizens aged 70 and above, will be piloted within a week. With benefits extending to 4.5 crore families, the scheme aims to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenses and streamline access through new health cards.

The Central government's Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (ABPM-JAY) scheme is set to be operational within a week, initially as a pilot project, official sources revealed.

On September 11, the Union Cabinet approved health coverage for all senior citizens aged 70 years and above irrespective of income, under AB PM-JAY, benefiting 4.5 crore families. Official sources noted that the pilot launch aims to address any issues that may arise. The scheme is particularly beneficial for women, given that 58% of the 70-plus age group are women, including 54% who are widows.

The scheme provides a coverage of ₹5 lakh per family annually, offering significant relief to senior citizens. Beneficiaries will receive new health cards for streamlined access to healthcare. Registration on the portal, featuring face authentication, is required for authentication. The Union Ministry of Health will also run comprehensive media campaigns to raise awareness at the community level. Immediate activation of the card follows eKYC completion. The Central government funds 60% of the scheme, with states having the flexibility to expand coverage to other age groups at their expense. Approximately 2 crore families and 3 crore individuals will be added to the scheme under this new initiative.

(With inputs from agencies.)