Union Cabinet Expands Ayushman Bharat to Cover All Seniors Over 70, Ensuring Universal Healthcare Access

Union Cabinet Expands Ayushman Bharat to Cover All Seniors Over 70, Ensuring Universal Healthcare Access

In a landmark decision, the Union Cabinet has expanded the Ayushman Bharat scheme to cover individuals over the age of 70, regardless of their income. This significant move fulfills a major electoral promise made by the BJP during the last Lok Sabha elections, aiming to provide broader access to healthcare for India's senior citizens.

Previously, Ayushman Bharat, the world’s largest health insurance initiative, provided Rs 5 lakh in annual coverage to the poorest 40% of India’s population. With the new expansion, an estimated 6 crore additional beneficiaries from 4.5 crore families will now receive health coverage, bringing millions more under the protective umbrella of the scheme.

The government has earmarked an initial outlay of Rs 3,437 crore for this extension, ensuring that healthcare reaches every elderly citizen without financial barriers. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav explained that the scheme will continue to operate on a demand-driven model, expanding as more citizens enroll for benefits. As demand grows, so will the scheme’s coverage, ensuring that a wider portion of the population can access necessary health services.

This move is being hailed as a critical step toward achieving universal healthcare in India. By extending benefits to the elderly, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the health and well-being of its most vulnerable citizens. With this expansion, Ayushman Bharat continues to play a pivotal role in transforming the country’s healthcare landscape, providing a safety net for millions.