PMJAY Scheme: How senior citizens can get Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card for free treatment up to Rs 5 lakh in a year

In a significant step toward accessible healthcare for the elderly, the government has officially launched an initiative under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, covering senior citizens aged 70 and above. Announced previously and formally launched on Dhanvantri Jayanti and the 9th Ayurveda Day, the scheme aims to provide health insurance coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh to eligible senior citizens. However, to avail of these benefits, seniors must obtain an ‘Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card.’

Eligibility and Benefits: Coverage for Seniors Aged 70 and Above

The scheme is open to all senior citizens aged 70 years or more without any income or asset requirements. This card provides a shared health cover – if both spouses are eligible, they share a combined limit of Rs 5 lakh. Additionally, families already enrolled in Ayushman Bharat can extend a separate Rs 5 lakh coverage to their elderly family members aged 70 and above.

Options for Retired Government Employees

Retired government employees over 70 who currently receive health benefits through other programs such as CGHS, SGHS, or ECHS can either retain their existing coverage or opt for this new Ayushman Bharat plan.

Steps to Obtain the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card

Eligible seniors or their family members can apply for the Ayushman card online through the official website, https://nha.gov.in/PM-JAY, by selecting the ‘PMJAY For 70+’ option. Seniors can choose ‘Beneficiary’ to register with personal details and complete e-KYC, while family members can register on behalf of seniors by selecting ‘Operator.’

Alternative Enrollment via Ayushman App

The Ayushman App also offers a convenient way to apply for the card. After downloading the app, users can select ‘Beneficiary’ or ‘Operator’ to log in, complete e-KYC, and download the Ayushman card.

Key Points on Health Coverage

The Rs 5 lakh coverage applies on a family basis, so additional family elders aged 70 or above can be enrolled under the same family limit. The total sum of Rs 5 lakh will be shared across enrolled family members.

For Further Assistance

For more details, individuals can visit the official Ayushman Bharat website or inquire at the nearest Common Service Center (CSC) for additional support.