In a landmark development for senior citizens, the Government of India has simplified access to free healthcare under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). Individuals aged 70 and above can now receive up to ₹5 lakh in annual medical coverage by applying for the Ayushman Vay Vandana Card directly through the Ayushman App. This move enhances healthcare accessibility for the elderly and aims to reduce financial barriers to quality medical treatment.
Introduced in 2018 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, AB-PMJAY is the world’s largest government-funded health assurance scheme, covering over 55 crore Indians. The new initiative, launched on October 29, 2024, extends benefits to all citizens aged 70+, regardless of income or social background, signifying a major expansion of the scheme’s reach. According to the Ministry of Health, this step is meant to improve the Ease of Access, Affordability, and Assurance, the three pillars of Ayushman Bharat.
Application Process and Eligibility Simplified
To apply for the Ayushman Vay Vandana Card, citizens must meet basic eligibility criteria: they must be 70 years or older, possess a valid Aadhaar card, and have a mobile number linked to it. The government has introduced two convenient ways to apply through the Ayushman App or the official Ayushman Bharat website.
How to Apply via Mobile App:
- Download the Ayushman App from the Google Play Store.
- Log in as a beneficiary using your mobile number and OTP.
- Select the ‘Enrollment for 70+’ option.
- Complete e-KYC using Aadhaar.
- Upload a photo and submit the form.
- The card will be available for download within minutes.
How to Apply via Website
- Visit the Ayushman Bharat official portal.
- Log in using your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
- Click on the ‘Enrollment for Senior Citizens (70+)’ banner.
- Fill in personal details, consent, and complete e-KYC.
- Upload a live photo and submit the form.
- The card will be ready to download within 15–20 minutes
Those needing assistance can contact 24×7 helplines at 14555 or 1800-11-0770.
Strong Public Response, But Rollout Still in Progress
Public interest in the scheme has been significant. As per official data, 65,97,096 applications have been received since the launch. Out of these, 64,96,101 applications have been approved, while 96,203 remain pending, and 4,792 were rejected. Despite the high approval rate, only 434 cards have been physically distributed so far, signaling the need for increased awareness and quicker rollout.
States like Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh have seen the highest application numbers. The government encourages eligible citizens to apply early and avoid delays in accessing critical health services such as cancer treatment, dialysis, or heart surgery. With rising medical costs, this scheme offers financial security and timely healthcare to India’s senior population.
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