Ayushman Bharat Update: Free treatment of ₹ 5 lakh to all elderly people of 70+ years, know the new eligibility and how to get the card made.

News India Live, Digital Desk: The Central Government has now taken all the senior citizens of the country under its ambit in a major expansion under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY). Now all citizens aged 70 years and above, irrespective of their income, are eligible to get free treatment up to ₹ 5 lakh. PM-JAY Expansion 2026: Under this new policy announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the barrier of socio-economic status has now been removed. Now whether rich or poor, every Indian above 70 years of age can avail the benefits of this scheme.1. Who are the eligible candidates? (New Eligibility Criteria)Age Limit: Only citizens aged 70 years and above. No income bar: The scheme is universal, i.e. no matter what your annual income is, you are eligible. Already covered family: If your family is already covered under the Ayushman scheme, then a 70+ year old family member will get a separate top-up cover of ₹ 5 lakh for himself. There will be no need to share it with other family members. Other government schemes: If an elderly person is already availing the benefits of schemes like CGHS, ECHS or CAPF, they will have the option to stay in their old scheme or choose Ayushman Bharat.2. Special ‘Ayushman Vay Vandana’ Card (Distinct Card) A new and different type of Ayushman Card (Vay Vandana Card) is being issued for this category of beneficiaries. This card will simplify the process of identification and cashless treatment in hospitals.3. What facilities will be available? Free treatment: Free treatment up to ₹ 5 lakh annually in empaneled government and private hospitals. Disease coverage: Around 2000 medical procedures are covered, including critical illnesses like heart disease, cancer, kidney disease and joint replacement. Pre-existing diseases: All pre-existing diseases will be covered from the first day of joining the scheme.4. how to apply? (How to Apply) Senior citizens aged 70+ can register themselves in the following ways: PM-JAY Portal: Visit the official website beneficiary.nha.gov.in. Ayushman App: Download ‘Ayushman App’ from Google Play Store and register yourself. Nearest Centre: You can also get the card made by taking the Aadhaar card to your nearest government hospital or Common Service Center (CSC). Documents: Only Aadhaar Card is mandatory for registration, so that your age can be verified. Could.5. Latest decision of Delhi Government (Update Feb 2026) Recently, along with implementing this scheme in the state, Delhi Government has also decided to bring widows and disabled persons under the ambit of this free treatment scheme, which will provide additional security to lakhs of families.