Ayushman Bharat Update: The government has announced a major relief for the elderly in the country. If a member of your family is 70 years of age or older, their medical expenses will no longer be a burden on your pocket. The central government has announced free health coverage of up to ₹10 lakh for such families under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY).

Ayushman Bharat Update: What are the new changes in the scheme?

Previously, under this scheme, every family received free health coverage of up to ₹5 lakh. However, the government has now made a significant change. Families with a member 70 years of age or older will now receive a total coverage of ₹10 lakh. Of this, ₹5 lakh will be for the entire family, while an additional ₹5 lakh will be reserved solely for the treatment of the elderly member above 70 years of age.

This means that if a family spends its share of ₹5 lakh on treatment, it will not be able to use the additional ₹5 lakh set aside for the elderly. This is a separate fund set aside solely for the treatment of senior citizens.

Ayushman Bharat Update: Who will benefit from the scheme?

The most important feature of the Ayushman Bharat scheme is that there is no limit on the number of family members. This means that even three generations of the same family can benefit from this scheme.

There is no income limit for individuals aged 70 years or above. To avail the scheme, only an Aadhaar card is required for age verification.

Ayushman Bharat Update: How to apply?

Those interested in taking advantage of this scheme can apply online through Aadhaar-based e-KYC. To do this, you need to visit the websitebeneficiary.nha.gov.in or the Ayushman Bharat app. There, you can upload your documents and complete the application process.

Once opted for, there’s no going back.

If a senior citizen is already covered under a government health scheme, such as the CGHS or ESIC, and now opts for the Ayushman Bharat scheme, they will not be able to return to the previous scheme. Therefore, make a wise decision before applying.

Will those with private insurance also benefit?

Yes, senior citizens who already have private health insurance can also avail of the Ayushman Bharat scheme. There are no income limits or special eligibility requirements.

This move is a significant relief for the elderly. Medical expenses often increase family concerns as they age, but this government decision provides lifelong security for citizens over 70.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Who can benefit from this scheme?

Answer: Individuals aged 70 and above and their families can avail of this scheme.

Question 2: Is there an income limit for this scheme?
Answer: No, there is no income limit requirement for this scheme.

Question 3: How to apply?
Answer: You can apply online through beneficiary.nha.gov.in or the Ayushman Bharat app.

Question 4: Can those with private insurance also benefit?
Answer: Yes, those with private insurance can also benefit from this scheme.

Question 5: Is this additional ₹5 lakh cover applicable to every member?
Answer: No, this additional amount is applicable only to members above 70 years of age.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always check the official website or the relevant department for the latest information or changes related to any government scheme.