Mahasamund (Chhattisgarh). In a major move to ensure healthcare for the elderly, the government has launched the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card Scheme under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana. This new initiative will benefit all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, offering free medical assistance up to ₹5 lakh per year.
According to Dr. I. Nageshwar Rao, Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO), Mahasamund, the new scheme aims to bring uniformity in healthcare support for all elderly citizens. Earlier, health assistance was categorized based on family ration cards—BPL families were entitled to ₹5 lakh and APL families to ₹50,000. Now, under the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card Scheme, every senior citizen above 70 years of age, irrespective of their economic status, will receive free health coverage up to ₹5 lakh.
Eligible beneficiaries will be able to avail cashless treatment at all state-registered government and private hospitals. The scheme ensures that healthcare benefits reach the elderly population without financial burden.
Dr. Rao explained that eligibility will be determined solely based on age, which will be verified through the Aadhaar card. He added that registration under the scheme is free of cost, and even those who already possess an Ayushman Card must re-register under this new system to access the enhanced benefits.
Senior citizens can visit their nearest Community Health Center (CHC), Primary Health Center (PHC), or Ayushman Arogya Mandir for registration. The entire process is simple and free. After registration, beneficiaries will receive their Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card, granting them access to ₹5 lakh worth of free medical treatment annually.
The Chief Medical and Health Officer has appealed to all citizens of Mahasamund district aged 70 years and above to register promptly and take advantage of this significant welfare initiative.
For any queries or assistance regarding the scheme, citizens can contact the toll-free helpline number 104.
Highlights of the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card Scheme:
- Applicable to senior citizens aged 70 years and above.
- Free health assistance up to ₹5 lakh annually.
- Benefits available across all categories (BPL & APL).
- Free registration required for all eligible individuals.
- Treatment available at state-registered hospitals.
- Aadhaar card mandatory for age verification.
- Helpline: Toll-free number 104 for information and support.
