The Ayushman Bharat Health Insurance scheme, recently expanded by Prime Minister Modi to include senior citizens aged 70 and above, allows eligible individuals to access cashless healthcare services. To apply for the scheme, seniors can check their eligibility on the official PMJAY website, register for an Ayushman card, and receive benefits of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year. The process is straightforward and does not require any enrollment fees, making it accessible for all eligible beneficiaries.

Steps to Apply for the Ayushman Bharat Card

To take advantage of the PMJAY scheme, senior citizens must first verify their eligibility. They can do this by visiting the official PMJAY website at pmjay.gov.in and clicking on the “Am I Eligible” icon. After entering their contact details and generating an OTP, applicants should select their state and search using their name, mobile number, or ration card number. If eligible, they can proceed to obtain their Ayushman card. To register for the card, seniors need to visit a Common Service Centre (CSC) or an empanelled hospital with necessary documents such as an Aadhaar card, income certificate, and family status documents. The Ayushman Mitra at these centres will assist them in completing the registration process.

Obtaining the Ayushman Card 

After confirming eligibility, beneficiaries must follow specific steps to receive their Ayushman Bharat card. They should visit the PMJAY website and log in using their registered mobile number. Once logged in, they will enter a Captcha code to generate another OTP. After providing necessary details such as the Household ID (HHD) code at a CSC, representatives will verify the information and complete the application process for a nominal fee of ₹30. Upon approval, beneficiaries can download their Ayushman card online or receive it directly from the CSC.

The Logical Indian’s Perspective

The expansion of the Ayushman Bharat scheme is a commendable initiative that prioritises the health needs of senior citizens in India. By simplifying the application process and ensuring that healthcare services are cashless and accessible, this scheme reflects a commitment to social equity and support for vulnerable populations. As we consider these advancements in healthcare access, how can we further encourage community support for our elders? We invite our readers to share their thoughts on enhancing healthcare accessibility for seniors in our society.