Game-Changing Health Coverage for India's Elderly Under AB PM-JAY

The Indian government is set to implement health coverage for individuals aged 70 years and above under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY). This initiative will benefit around six crore senior citizens, offering coverage up to Rs 5 lakh annually. Registration will initially launch on a pilot basis.

The Indian government is set to roll out health coverage for individuals aged 70 years and above under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) within a week, official sources confirmed on Thursday. The scheme is expected to benefit around six crore senior citizens.

Registrations will commence initially on a pilot basis in select locations and gradually expand across the country. The scheme requires individuals to register on the PMJAY portal or Ayushman app for enrollment.

The Union Cabinet approved the initiative on Wednesday, aiming to offer annual health coverage up to Rs 5 lakh per family, irrespective of income. The scheme will add approximately 2 crore families and 3 crore individuals to its existing beneficiary base, significantly enhancing healthcare access for India's elderly population.

(With inputs from agencies.)