“The Uttar Pradesh government has expanded the Ayushman Bharat scheme to provide free health insurance of up to ₹5 lakh for all senior citizens aged 70 and above, regardless of income. This initiative, benefiting over 6 crore seniors, includes cashless treatment and coverage for pre-existing conditions, aiming to ensure accessible healthcare for the elderly.”
Uttar Pradesh Enhances Healthcare for Seniors with Ayushman Bharat Expansion
Ayushman Bharat Expansion for Seniors
The Uttar Pradesh government, aligning with the Union Cabinet’s decision on September 11, 2024, has extended the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) to cover all senior citizens aged 70 and above, irrespective of their socio-economic status. This move benefits approximately 4.5 crore families, including 6 crore senior citizens, with a free health insurance cover of ₹5 lakh per family annually for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization.
Ayushman Vay Vandana Card
Eligible seniors will receive a dedicated “Ayushman Vay Vandana Card” to access scheme benefits. For those already covered under AB PM-JAY, an additional top-up cover of ₹5 lakh per year is provided exclusively for seniors, not shared with family members below 70. Others receive the standard ₹5 lakh family-based cover. The card facilitates treatment for around 2,000 medical procedures, including pre-existing conditions from day one.
Cashless Treatment and Hospital Network
The scheme allows cashless treatment at over 24,000 empaneled hospitals nationwide, reducing financial burdens during medical emergencies. Since its launch, over 22,000 seniors have availed treatments worth ₹40 crore for conditions like coronary angioplasty, hip replacements, and cataract surgeries. This ensures seniors can access quality healthcare without upfront payments.
Choice for Existing Scheme Beneficiaries
Seniors already enrolled in other public health schemes, such as the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), or Ayushman Central Armed Police Force (CAPF), can choose to continue with their existing plan or switch to AB PM-JAY. Those with private health insurance or under the Employees’ State Insurance scheme are also eligible.
IRDAI Reforms Complementing Benefits
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has introduced reforms to make health insurance more accessible for seniors. As of January 30, 2025, insurers cannot increase premiums for senior citizen policies by more than 10% annually without IRDAI approval. The waiting period for pre-existing conditions has been reduced from four to three years, benefiting seniors with chronic illnesses like diabetes or hypertension.
Registration and Accessibility
Seniors aged 70 and above with a valid Aadhaar number can register for the scheme through the AB PM-JAY portal or via face authentication. A pilot launch is underway to address initial challenges, ensuring smooth implementation across Uttar Pradesh. Dedicated helplines and customer service channels have been mandated for seniors to handle claims and grievances efficiently.
Impact and Reach
The expansion, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 29, 2024, aims to alleviate financial stress for seniors, particularly those with limited income. AB PM-JAY has already facilitated 7.37 crore hospital admissions nationwide, with 49% women beneficiaries, and saved the public over ₹1 lakh crore. This initiative strengthens Uttar Pradesh’s healthcare infrastructure for its aging population.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent news reports, government announcements, and regulatory updates from sources like the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, IRDAI, and reputable news outlets. Information is accurate as of August 5, 2025, but readers are advised to verify details with official AB PM-JAY portals or insurers for the latest updates.