Delhi to Distribute Ayushman Bharat Health Cards for People Aged 70+ – Free Medical Care Up to Rs 10 Lakh

By | April 28, 2025

In a significant move to improve healthcare access for older citizens, the Delhi government will distribute Ayushman Bharat Health Cards to eligible individuals aged 70 and above. Delhi’s Chief Minister Rekha Gupta will launch this initiative today, April 28, at Thyagaraj Stadium. The scheme offers free medical treatment for older people, with coverage up to Rs 10 lakh per year. Therefore, this initiative is a vital step toward ensuring that the healthcare needs of Delhi’s aging population are addressed effectively.

The program, implemented under the Pradhan Mantri Vay Vandana Yojana, will help older residents of Delhi access essential health services without the financial burden that often comes with medical treatments. In addition, the scheme ensures that people will not have to worry about the high costs associated with healthcare.

What is Ayushman Bharat and How Does it Benefit Older People?

Ayushman Bharat, also known as Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), aims to provide health insurance to vulnerable citizens across the country. The scheme ensures that medical treatments, including surgeries and hospitalizations, remain accessible to those who cannot afford them. For individuals aged 70 and above, this initiative offers critical financial protection against unexpected healthcare costs. As a result, it helps mitigate the strain that medical bills can place on older people, especially those living on fixed incomes.

With the Ayushman Bharat Health Card, older citizens can access a wide range of medical services, including hospitalization, surgeries, diagnostics, and treatments for chronic diseases. Notably, the card provides coverage up to Rs 10 lakh, ensuring that recipients receive the care they need without financial worries. Consequently, this initiative removes the financial barriers to treatment, empowering older people to seek the healthcare they deserve.

Pradhan Mantri Vay Vandana Yojana (PMVVY): Financial Security for Older Citizens

Along with Ayushman Bharat, the Delhi government is launching the Pradhan Mantri Vay Vandana Yojana (PMVVY). This program, designed specifically for older people, provides a reliable source of income during their retirement years. Under this scheme, older citizens can invest a lump sum amount and receive monthly pension payments. Thus, this initiative ensures that people aged 60 and above can maintain a stable lifestyle in their later years.

By offering financial security, the Pradhan Mantri Vay Vandana Yojana supports older citizens in sustaining their living standards without depending on family support or depleting their savings.

How the Initiative Will Benefit Older People in Delhi

As individuals age, healthcare becomes even more crucial, but also more expensive. The Ayushman Bharat Health Card helps alleviate the financial burden for Delhi’s older citizens. By offering free medical care, the card ensures that they can access necessary treatments without worrying about the high costs typically associated with healthcare.

Many older people live on fixed incomes or limited resources, making healthcare a significant challenge. However, the Ayushman Bharat Health Card eliminates this barrier, providing peace of mind to recipients. With this card, older citizens can focus on their health and well-being without the added stress of medical bills.

Eligibility for Ayushman Bharat Health Cards

To receive the Ayushman Bharat Health Card, individuals must meet specific criteria. People aged 70 years and above, residing in Delhi, are eligible. The government has identified beneficiaries based on factors such as income and health status. Therefore, the distribution will be conducted efficiently to ensure that only eligible individuals receive the cards.

Eligible people will be invited to the distribution event at Thyagaraj Stadium, where they will receive their health cards. The government has streamlined the process, ensuring that older citizens can easily access the benefits of the scheme.

Key Features of the Ayushman Bharat Health Card for Older People

  • No-Cost Healthcare: The Ayushman Bharat Health Card covers all medical expenses, including hospital stays, surgeries, and diagnostic treatments. As a result, recipients do not have to worry about the financial strain of healthcare.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: The card offers a coverage limit of up to Rs 10 lakh per family per year. This extensive coverage makes the card one of the most comprehensive health insurance plans for older individuals.
  • Inclusion of Pre-Existing Conditions: Unlike many health insurance policies, the Ayushman Bharat Health Card covers pre-existing conditions, which is particularly valuable for older people who may already face health challenges.
  • Wide Network of Healthcare Providers: The card allows recipients to access medical services from a broad network of both private and public healthcare facilities, ensuring they receive high-quality treatment.
  • Empowerment and Security: This initiative not only ensures that older people receive necessary healthcare but also empowers them by removing the financial burden of medical costs. With access to health services, older citizens can maintain their dignity and independence.

The Distribution Event: What to Expect

The distribution ceremony of the Ayushman Bharat Health Cards will take place at Thyagaraj Stadium today. Delhi’s Chief Minister Rekha Gupta will lead the launch, and eligible older people will receive their health cards at the event. Additionally, local officials and healthcare experts will be on hand to guide participants through the registration process and explain how they can take full advantage of the healthcare services available.

This event marks a pivotal moment in Delhi’s efforts to ensure affordable healthcare for older citizens. The government has taken great care in organizing a smooth distribution process, allowing eligible individuals to begin using their health cards immediately.

Conclusion

The distribution of Ayushman Bharat Health Cards today marks a groundbreaking initiative that will significantly enhance the quality of life for older people in Delhi. Through this program, the Delhi government ensures that older citizens can access healthcare without worrying about the financial burden. With coverage up to Rs 10 lakh, individuals will receive free treatment for various health conditions, securing their well-being in their later years.

This initiative, combined with the Pradhan Mantri Vay Vandana Yojana, sets an excellent example for other states to follow. The Ayushman Bharat Health Card is more than just a healthcare tool—it’s a lifeline for many, offering them the opportunity to live healthier, more secure lives.