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Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana
Context:
- The Union Cabinet has approved a health insurance cover of Rs 5 lakh for all senior citizens aged 70 years and above under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY).
- This move is set to benefit approximately six crore senior citizens across the country, ensuring they receive the necessary medical care without financial burden.
Key Highlights:
- Universal Coverage: The scheme will provide health insurance coverage to all individuals aged 70 and above, irrespective of their income.
- This expansion aims to include around 4.5 crore families, offering them financial security and access to quality healthcare.
- Distinct Card for Beneficiaries: Eligible senior citizens will be issued a new, distinct card under the AB PM-JAY scheme.
- This card will facilitate easy access to healthcare services and ensure that the benefits are exclusively available to the intended age group.
- Additional Top-Up for Existing Beneficiaries: Senior citizens already covered under the AB PM-JAY scheme will receive an additional top-up cover of Rs 5 lakh per year.
- This top-up is exclusively for individuals aged 70 and above and does not need to be shared with other family members below this age.
- Choice of Scheme: Senior citizens currently under private health insurance policies or the Employees’ State Insurance scheme will also be eligible for benefits under AB PM-JAY.
Those already availing benefits from other public health insurance schemes, such as the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), and Ayushman Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) can choose between their existing scheme or opt for AB PM-JAY.