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News India Live, Digital Desk: The central government has expanded the scope of its flagship health scheme, Ayushman Bharat. 70 years of age and above Has been made mandatory for all citizens of. Now people in this age group, irrespective of their income, can get free treatment up to ₹5 lakh. Along with this, their old age is being financially secured through pension schemes.
1. Free health insurance of ₹5 lakh (Ayushman Vay Vandana)
The government has launched ‘Ayushman Vaya Vandana’ card for senior citizens. Its main features are as follows:
Eligibility: All citizens aged 70 years and above (no income limit).
Coverage: Free treatment up to ₹5 lakh every year.
Additional Top-up: If the family is already covered under Ayushman Bharat, members aged 70+ will get a sum of ₹5 lakh. separate top-up Will get, which will not have to be shared with other family members.
Option: Senior citizens who are already availing the benefits of government health schemes like CGHS or ECHS will have the option to stay in their old scheme or switch to Ayushman Bharat.
2. Pension Benefits (Atal Pension Yojana – APY)
For pension benefits, the government is promoting Atal Pension Yojana, which is being considered as a complete ‘social security package’ along with health insurance:
Minimum Pension: ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 per month (after age 60).
Contribution: One has to start investing between the age of 18 to 40 years.
Guarantee: This is a pension scheme guaranteed by the Government of India.
Important Dates & How to Apply
Registration: Registration for new Ayushman Bharat card (for age 70+) currently underway has started.
How to Apply: 1. Ayushman App: You can download it from Google Play Store and do e-KYC through Aadhar card.
2. Portal: Application can be made by visiting beneficiary.nha.gov.in.
3. CSC Centre: You can also get the card made by visiting your nearest Common Service Center (CSC).
Mandatory Documents: Only Aadhar card (which is linked to the mobile number) is mandatory.
Will pensioners also get benefits?
Yes, according to the Times Bull report, beneficiaries of EPFO and other government pension schemes are also being covered under this new extension of Ayushman Bharat, so that they do not have to spend their pension amount on treatment.