Srinagar, Sep 11 (KINS):The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a significant expansion of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY). The new policy provides comprehensive health coverage to all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, regardless of their income.
This initiative is set to benefit around 4.5 crore families, encompassing approximately 6 crore senior citizens. Each eligible senior citizen will receive up to ₹5 lakh in free health insurance coverage annually. Those already covered under AB PM-JAY will receive an additional top-up of ₹5 lakh per year, separate from their family’s coverage.
Eligible seniors will receive a distinct AB PM-JAY card. They can choose between their current public health insurance schemes or opt for the new benefits. The scheme also includes seniors under private health insurance policies or the Employees’ State Insurance scheme.
AB PM-JAY, the world’s largest publicly funded health assurance program, initially covered 10.74 crore families. This number was increased to 12 crore families in January 2022. The program has already facilitated over ₹1 lakh crore in benefits, including 7.37 crore hospital admissions.(KINS)
Cabinet Approves Health Coverage for All Seniors Aged 70 and Above Under Ayushman Bharat Scheme
