Government Extends Ayushman Bharat Scheme: Free Health Coverage for Senior Citizens Aged 70 and Above
The Union Cabinet’s recent decision to extend the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) to senior citizens aged 70 and above marks a significant step in public healthcare. With this expansion, all individuals in this age group, regardless of income level, will receive annual health coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh per family. This initiative aims to address the growing health concerns of India’s elderly population, especially as they often struggle with medical expenses in the absence of a comprehensive social security system.
Previously, the Ayushman Bharat scheme focused on providing health coverage to economically disadvantaged families, specifically targeting the bottom 40% of the population. The coverage was shared among family members, irrespective of age, and provided relief for medical treatments and therapies. Now, with the Cabinet’s new directive, an additional 6 crore people—belonging to 4.5 crore families—will be brought under the scheme, with each eligible beneficiary receiving a dedicated health card.
The extension of AB PM-JAY is intended to alleviate the financial burden faced by senior citizens who often contend with multiple health issues. It also offers a crucial safety net for families with elderly members, where medical costs can become overwhelming. Health Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized that the Rs 5 lakh coverage will be shared by the eligible senior citizens in a family. This is particularly important in today’s society, where nuclear families are becoming more prevalent, leaving senior citizens with less familial support.
One of the most notable aspects of this decision is that it is the first time the government is offering complete health coverage to a specific age group, marking a new direction in the scheme’s evolution. By focusing on senior citizens, the government is recognizing the unique challenges faced by the elderly, particularly as India’s population is rapidly aging. According to projections, the percentage of people aged 60 and above is expected to rise sharply, from 8.6% in 2011 to 19.5% by 2050. In absolute numbers, this means the elderly population will grow from 103 million in 2011 to a staggering 319 million by mid-century. Currently, health insurance coverage in this age group stands at just 20%, underscoring the importance of expanding health protections for older citizens.
While the scheme is a significant step toward enhancing healthcare access for the elderly, questions remain about its financial sustainability. The initial outlay for the extension is estimated at Rs 3,437 crore. As the scheme is demand-based, the government expects costs to rise as more people take advantage of the coverage. The central government will bear the majority of the financial burden, covering 90% of the costs for states in the hilly and northeastern regions. Other states will contribute 40% of the expenses. Further details on the implementation of the program are expected as the rollout progresses.
In addition to Ayushman Bharat, senior citizens who are currently enrolled in other public health insurance schemes like the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), and Ayushman Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) have the option to continue with their current schemes or switch to the AB PM-JAY. Those who hold private insurance or are covered under the Employees’ State Insurance Scheme (ESI) will also be eligible for the expanded benefits under this government initiative.
Experts anticipate that providing universal health coverage to those over 70 will cost more than the current focus on the poorest 40% of the population across all age groups. However, given the demographic shift and the increasing healthcare needs of older adults, the long-term benefits of easing their disease burden are expected to outweigh the initial financial outlay. As India’s elderly population continues to grow, extending health coverage to this vulnerable group marks a major step toward ensuring their well-being and easing the pressure on their families.
The initiative is a welcome move in a country where the cost of healthcare is often prohibitive, especially for senior citizens. By expanding the scope of Ayushman Bharat to include those over 70, the government is taking a bold step toward making healthcare accessible for all, regardless of age or income.