India Rolls Out Landmark Health Insurance Scheme for Senior Citizens

New Delhi, September 17, 2024: The Indian government has launched the world’s largest public health insurance program for senior citizens, offering free health coverage of ₹500,000 (US$5,959) annually to all Indians aged 70 and above, regardless of income.

This initiative is particularly timely as India’s elderly population is expected to double by 2050, with one in five persons over the age of 70 and accounting for 40% of its 1.4 billion population. Most of these seniors are expected to be women, many of them widows, emphasizing the increasing demand for geriatric care.

Sr. Jenifer Prafulla D’Souza, Coordinator of the CCBI’s Health Apostolate applauded the initiative, "It will greatly alleviate the financial burden of medical expenses for many families and improve the quality of life for our elderly population. This initiative is a significant step towards ensuring that they receive the healthcare they deserve. We commend the government for this inclusive and compassionate move.”

The new scheme expands the coverage provided under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), which previously offered income-based healthcare benefits.

This expanded coverage aims to support approximately 4.5 crore families, including 6 crore senior citizens, and builds upon AB PM-JAY’s existing services, which have already benefited 12.34 crore households.

Now, every senior citizen aged 70 and above will receive free healthcare without financial or socio-economic barriers. Beneficiaries will be issued new identification cards as part of the program.

Catholic Connect has introduced a new health insurance plan tailored specifically for the Catholic community and is available to individuals aged between 18 to 95 years. This initiative aims to provide robust healthcare support and covers expenses incurred during pre and post-hospitalization. 

The plan covers pre-existing conditions from day one, as well as Ayush treatments and critical illnesses without waiting period. 

Benefit from no co-payment requirements and domiciliary hospitalization with wide range of network hospitals ensuring comprehensive support.

For Catholic Connect Insurance, contact:

+91 79752 33559

+91 81470 61892

By Catholic Connect Reporter