The Government of India has made a special provision for senior citizens in the Ayushman Bharat scheme, under which all citizens aged 70 and above can now apply online without any verification and receive cashless health benefits of up to ₹5 lakh annually.
Known as the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card, it was launched in 2024 and is proving to be a major relief for senior citizens across the country. With this card, they can receive free treatment in government and private hospitals, including surgeries, ICUs, doctor consultations, medications, and hospitalization and post-discharge expenses. Furthermore, this card is nationally portable, meaning it can be used anywhere in the country.
The biggest advantage of this scheme is that the application process is extremely simple and online. Applicants must apply through the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana website or the Ayushman app. Simply enter your Aadhaar card and complete e-KYC. There’s no need to submit any income certificates or additional documents. The card can be downloaded digitally immediately after application, allowing older adults to access health coverage quickly.
Additionally, if the senior citizen’s family is already benefiting from the PM-JAY scheme, they also receive special top-up coverage of up to ₹5 lakh. This top-up is exclusive to the senior citizen and is not shared with other family members. The plan covers treatments such as doctor’s fees, diagnostic tests, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and implants.
Under this scheme, the government aims to provide hassle-free access to superior healthcare for senior citizens, allowing them to enjoy health benefits without financial worries. Anyone over the age of 70, whether financially capable or not, is eligible for this scheme and can easily access its benefits.
