Tue Oct 29 19:47:31 UTC 2024: ## PM Modi Extends Ayushman Bharat Coverage to All Senior Citizens

**New Delhi:** In a move aimed at providing greater healthcare security for senior citizens, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 29th announced the extension of the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme to include all individuals aged 70 years and above. This expansion fulfills a promise made by the BJP during the recent Lok Sabha elections.

Previously, only senior citizens below the poverty line were eligible for the scheme. The extended coverage now ensures that every individual above 70 years of age will have access to health insurance under Ayushman Bharat.

**Key Features of the Scheme:**

* **Financial Coverage:** Each family covered under the Ayushman Bharat Health Insurance (AB PMJAY) scheme receives a health cover of up to Rs. 5 lakh per year. This means the insurance company will bear the expenses of medical treatment up to this limit for any family member.
* **Relief for Families:** CEO of CarePal Secure, Pankaj Navani, stated that the government’s initiative will greatly reduce the financial burden of medical expenses on families. Many families struggle to afford medical treatment, and this scheme will provide much-needed relief.
* **Top-up Coverage for Existing Beneficiaries:** Senior citizens already enrolled under Ayushman Bharat will receive an additional Rs. 5 lakh annual top-up coverage. This ensures they are protected against high medical expenses exceeding the initial Rs. 5 lakh limit.
* **Choice of Coverage:** Individuals already covered under other government health schemes can choose to continue their existing coverage or opt for the new Ayushman Bharat scheme, availing the benefits of either option.

**Wide-Reaching Impact:**

The scheme is expected to benefit approximately 4.5 crore families, covering roughly 6 crore senior citizens. They will now have access to free medical treatment up to Rs. 5 lakh.

**Applying for the Scheme:**

Senior citizens wishing to avail themselves of the scheme must register on the PMJAY portal or through the Ayushman app. Those with existing Ayushman Bharat cards will need to re-register for the top-up card. The government has simplified the registration process to ensure easy access for all beneficiaries.

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