Delhi govt launches Ayushman Bharat Vay Vandana Yojana to support senior citizens

NEW DELHI: Delhi chief minister Rekha Gupta along with Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Monday distributed Ayushman Bharat cards to eligible senior citizens under the Pradhan Mantri Vay Vandana Yojana at Thyagaraj Stadium in New Delhi. The event marked the official rollout of Ayushman Vay Vandana cards, aimed at providing healthcare benefits to citizens aged 70 years and above.


Under the scheme, eligible citizens will receive free healthcare support worth Rs 5 lakh annually, with an additional Rs 5 lakh coverage provided by the Delhi government, bringing the total health cover to Rs 10 lakh.
Speaking at the launch, Gupta said, "This is the first programme of its kind under the triple engine model, and I thank Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi for respecting our elderly with this health scheme."
She added, "There will be no difference between the rich and the poor; everyone will benefit from this scheme, regardless of their financial background," while announcing that registration for the scheme has started. "The only criteria is that you must be a Delhi citizen and hold an Aadhaar card. You can enroll from today onwards."
Gupta highlighted that over 100 hospitals are participating and more than 30,000 citizens have already registered for cashless treatment, calling it a "significant step forward."
Taking a swipe at the previous AAP government, Gupta said, "The previous government did an injustice by delaying this scheme in Delhi for seven years due to ego and political reasons."
She also pledged rapid development for the city, stating, "Now, with triple engagement, we promise to bring change to Delhi. The city will become more beautiful, educated, and developed. The benefits of this scheme will reach everyone. We will work together, and it is a huge responsibility. Excuses won't work anymore; we will deliver the progress Delhi deserves."
Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Singh called the scheme a historic milestone for Delhi’s healthcare system. "This scheme is portable, and any Delhi resident, even if they are outside the city, can enrol. Chemotherapy, ICU care, surgeries, and 961 other medical treatments are also included," Singh said.
Every senior citizen enrolled under the Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana will receive a personalised health card containing their complete health records, details of regular check-ups, and emergency service information.
All diagnostic tests for citizens aged 70 and above will also be provided free of cost under the scheme.
Earlier, Gupta had posted on X, "Serving the elderly is our top priority. Now, the Centre and Delhi governments together are providing health coverage of up to Rs 10 lakh to senior citizens aged 70 and above. Secure the health of your loved ones - get the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card today. #ViksitDelhi #AyushmanDelhi70Plus."