Ayushman Bharat Scheme Enhances Health Coverage to Rs 10 Lakh for Senior Citizens

The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) has introduced a significant enhancement for senior citizens. Under the expanded scheme, families with members aged 70 years and above can now avail a total health insurance coverage of up to Rs 10 lakh annually. Crucially, this Rs 10 lakh coverage is effectively divided: Rs 5 lakh is designated for the treatment needs of the core family unit (spouse and children), while an additional, separate Rs 5 lakh is reserved exclusively for senior citizens aged 70 years or older within the family.

This means the additional Rs 5 lakh is a top-up specifically for the elderly members and cannot be used by other family members if the primary Rs 5 lakh limit is exhausted. Eligibility for this enhanced benefit is straightforward; individuals must be 70 years of age or older, and their identity must be verified through Aadhaar via e-KYC. There are no income criteria or economic status limitations for this specific senior citizen benefit.

Beneficiaries can start using the coverage from day one of enrollment, with no waiting period. Senior citizens will receive a distinct Ayushman card. Applications can be submitted online through the Ayushman Bharat portal or the Ayushman App. While the scheme can be availed alongside private health insurance, individuals already covered by certain government schemes like CGHS or ESIC may need to choose between their existing benefits and AB PM-JAY, as dual benefits are not permissible in some cases.

Impact This expansion is expected to significantly improve healthcare access and financial protection for India's elderly population. It may lead to increased utilization of healthcare services, benefiting private hospitals, diagnostic centers, and pharmaceutical companies. The move directly addresses out-of-pocket health expenditure for a vulnerable demographic. Rating: 7/10

Difficult Terms: Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY): India's flagship national health insurance scheme providing financial protection and access to healthcare services for eligible citizens. Aadhaar: A 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to residents, based on biometric and demographic data. e-KYC (electronic Know Your Customer): An online process to verify identity and address using Aadhaar, eliminating the need for physical document submission. Beneficiary: A person or entity who receives benefits from a scheme or program. CGHS (Central Government Health Scheme): A scheme providing comprehensive healthcare facilities to Central Government employees and pensioners. ESIC (Employees' State Insurance Corporation): A statutory body that provides social security and healthcare benefits to workers in the organized sector.