The Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana, part of Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) since 2024, is extending its benefits nationwide, even to remote regions like Chamoli district in Uttarakhand. Chamoli, a border district, has successfully enrolled senior citizens in the scheme, issuing over 500 Ayushman Vay Vandana cards for free healthcare services. This initiative has notably eased access to medical care for residents of challenging terrains.
The elderly beneficiaries in Chamoli are now able to receive treatment at designated hospitals without financial constraints, thanks to the Ayushman Vay Vandana cards. Previously, seeking medical care was arduous, but with these cards, treatment is now accessible without cost. Beneficiaries have expressed gratitude towards the Modi government for implementing this welfare scheme, highlighting the positive impact on their lives.
To enhance the scheme’s reach, health department teams are actively registering eligible beneficiaries in villages, aiming to increase participation. Since its expansion in October 2024, AB-PMJAY now offers free treatment benefits of up to Rs 5 lakh annually to all senior citizens aged 70 and above, irrespective of their economic status. As of December 5 last year, over 93 lakh Ayushman Vay Vandana cards had been issued nationwide, with significant hospital admissions and treatment expenses covered under the scheme.
