New Delhi, 29 October (H.S.): The Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana, the Central Government’s health coverage scheme for senior citizens aged 70 and above, has completed two years, with the government authorising more than Rs. 5,668.80 crore for 2.346 million hospital admissions.

Marking the occasion, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda issued a message reiterating that ensuring a dignified life, better healthcare and financial security for senior citizens has remained a priority of the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Modi launched the scheme on October 29, 2024. It provides eligible senior citizens aged 70 years and above with free hospital treatment coverage of up to Rs. 5 lakh, irrespective of their socio-economic status.

Over the past two years, 1.38 crore Ayushman cards have been issued, while 2.346 million hospital admission cases have been approved. These figures reflect the scheme’s role in helping senior citizens access essential medical treatment.

The authorisation of hospital treatment worth more than Rs. 5,668 crore underscores the importance of financial protection against healthcare expenses for the elderly.

Implemented by the National Health Authority (NHA) under the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the scheme is an extension of the Ayushman Bharat–Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY). It aims to provide health coverage and relief from treatment costs to approximately six crore senior citizens belonging to around 4.5 crore families across the country.

Beneficiaries can access a range of healthcare services under the scheme, covering treatments from cataract surgery to care for cardiovascular diseases.

Cardiovascular treatment has received particular attention under the initiative. More than Rs. 649 crore has been authorised for advanced cardiac care and medical procedures, highlighting the scheme’s focus on making specialised treatment more accessible to older citizens.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar