Following the recent expansion of the Ayushman Bharat scheme to include senior citizens above 70, there has been a significant response from elderly citizens nationwide, with more than 200,000 seniors enrolling in just one week. According to data from the National Health Authority, Kerala leads in new enrollments, followed closely by Madhya Pradesh.

Highlights of the Scheme Expansion

The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), launched in 2018, provides up to Rs 5 lakh in free medical coverage annually. Recently expanded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the scheme now includes citizens aged 70 and above, providing essential healthcare support for the elderly. This expansion has been well-received, with 216,000 new senior beneficiaries joining within the first week. Kerala has seen the highest participation, with nearly 89,800 seniors issued cards, followed by Madhya Pradesh with 53,000 new enrollments and Uttar Pradesh with 47,000.

Regional Enrollment Figures

While Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh lead in enrollments, southern states like Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh report lower numbers, with 3,156, 3,056, and 3,488 enrollments, respectively. Meanwhile, residents of Delhi and West Bengal are unable to benefit, as their state governments have opted out of the scheme. In contrast, Punjab has adopted the expanded version, opening access to more residents.

What is Ayushman Bharat?

Initiated in 2018 under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, Ayushman Bharat is the world’s largest healthcare scheme, providing annual coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh per family for free medical treatment. Registration is required on the official PMJAY website to avail of these benefits.

Easy Access and Support

Seniors or their family members can enroll on the PMJAY website. If any hospital denies treatment, complaints can be filed through the PMJAY website, by calling 14555, or by email and fax.

This rapid enrollment among seniors highlights the significant demand for accessible healthcare, particularly for older citizens, and demonstrates the scheme's importance in improving health outcomes across India.