2024-09-12 10:50 AM IST
The Union Cabinet has approved a significant expansion of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) to provide health coverage for all senior citizens aged 70 and above, regardless of their income. This new measure aims to benefit 4.5 crore families and 6 crore senior citizens by offering them free health insurance coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh annually. Each eligible senior citizen will receive a new, distinct card for accessing this coverage. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted that this initiative fulfills Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s promise to ensure comprehensive health insurance for all senior citizens over 70 years of age. For families already covered under the scheme, this will mean an additional Rs 5 lakh in health insurance coverage. This top-up will provide extra financial support for their medical expenses, ensuring better healthcare access for elderly individuals.