Modi launches Rs 5-lakh free health insurance for 70-plus

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday launched his government's scheme to cover all older people aged 70 and up under the health insurance scheme Ayushman Bharat. "People aged above 70 will get free treatment in hospitals; they will be given the 'Ayushman Vaya Vandana' card," Mr Modi said at an event in Delhi.

An elderly person wanting to avail the benefits of the scheme must hold an `Ayushman Vay Vandana Card.' 

`Poltical reasons'

The Prime Minister, however, said the elderly in Delhi and Bengal won't be able to benefit from Ayushman Bharat as their governments are not implementing it for “political reasons.” 

Mr Modi launched multiple projects related to the health sector that would cost around ₹12,850 crore at the All India Institute of Ayurveda.

"As a major addition to the flagship scheme Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY)," Mr Modi launched the health coverage for people aged 70 and above. "This will help provide health coverage to all senior citizens regardless of their income," a government press release stated.

This national health scheme aims to provide comprehensive coverage of up to ₹5 lakh for hospitalisation expenses. “But regrettably, political interests have hindered its implementation in your States [Delhi and Bengal],” Mr. Modi said.

`Unable to assist'

"I extend my apologies to senior citizens aged 70 and above living in Delhi and West Bengal. Unfortunately, due to the State governments' decision not to participate in the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, I will be unable to assist," he said.

Mr Modi said around 4 crore individuals have benefited from the Ayushman Bharat Yojana. "Our government has made a significant decision to bear the medical expenses of up to Rs. 5 lakh for the poor," he added.

(By arrangement with livemint.com)