Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha Praises Expansion of Ayushman Bharat for Senior Citizens
New Delhi [India], September 12: Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has praised the Union Cabinet’s decision to expand the Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY scheme. He called it a ‘landmark step’ for senior citizens’ healthcare.
In a post on X, Saha said, ‘THANK YOU MODI ji! A landmark step for senior citizens’ healthcare! Ayushman Bharat – PMJAY benefit will now be provided to all citizens aged 70 and above.’
The Union Cabinet approved health coverage for all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, regardless of income, under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY). This will benefit approximately 4.5 crore families, covering six crore senior citizens with Rs 5 lakh free health insurance per family per year.
Eligible senior citizens will receive a new distinct card under AB PM-JAY. Those already covered under the scheme will get an additional top-up cover of Rs 5 lakh per year for themselves.
AB PM-JAY is the world’s largest publicly funded health assurance scheme, providing Rs 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization to 55 crore individuals. The scheme has covered 7.37 crore hospital admissions, including 49% women beneficiaries, and has benefited the public to the extent of over Rs 1 lakh crore.
Senior citizens aged 70 and above who are already availing benefits of other public health insurance schemes may choose their existing scheme or opt for AB PM-JAY. Those under private health insurance or Employees’ State Insurance scheme will also be eligible for AB PM-JAY benefits.
The expansion of coverage to senior citizens aged 70 and above was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in April 2024.
Doubts Revealed
Tripura -: Tripura is a small state in the northeastern part of India. It is known for its beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Chief Minister -: A Chief Minister is the head of the government in an Indian state. They are responsible for running the state and making important decisions.
Manik Saha -: Manik Saha is the current Chief Minister of Tripura. He is a political leader who helps make decisions for the state.
Union Cabinet -: The Union Cabinet is a group of top leaders in the Indian government, including the Prime Minister. They make important decisions for the whole country.
Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY -: Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY is a health insurance scheme in India. It helps poor and vulnerable families get free medical treatment.
Health insurance -: Health insurance is a service that helps pay for medical expenses. It makes it easier for people to get treatment when they are sick or injured.
Rs 5 lakh -: Rs 5 lakh is a way to say 500,000 rupees, which is a large amount of money in India. It can help cover many medical expenses.
Senior citizens -: Senior citizens are older people, usually those who are 60 years old or above. They often need more medical care as they age.
Socio-economic status -: Socio-economic status refers to a person’s economic and social position in society. It includes factors like income, education, and occupation.