Get Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card: Eligibility, Benefits, and Application Process

Healthcare accessibility in India is undergoing a transformative shift, especially for senior citizens. With the extension of the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, the government has launched a special initiative known as the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card. This initiative ensures that citizens aged 70 years and above can receive free medical treatment up to ₹5 lakh per year, irrespective of their income status.

This is a significant relief for elderly individuals, particularly those without financial support, as it eliminates the burden of high medical expenses. Whether someone belongs to a high or low-income group, they can avail of this benefit across both government and private hospitals that are part of the Ayushman Bharat network.

Summary Table

What Is the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card?

The Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card is a healthcare entitlement card designed specifically for the elderly population aged 70 years or older. It functions under the broader Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY). While PM-JAY traditionally targeted low-income families, this extension removes financial restrictions and targets age as the primary eligibility criterion.

Key Features:

• Annual Coverage: ₹5 lakh per senior citizen

• No income limit: Applicable to all senior citizens aged 70 and above

• Access to Quality Healthcare: Treatment available at empaneled public and private hospitals

• Cashless and Paperless Process: Medical treatment and hospitalization are processed without any direct payment

Current Progress: Number of Applications and Approvals

The response to the Ayushman Vaya Vandana initiative has been overwhelming. According to the official report as of May 25, 2025:

• Total Applications Received: 65,97,096

• Total Approved Applications: 64,96,101

• Pending or Rejected Applications: Approximately 1 lakh, pending for various reasons such as incomplete documentation or age verification

Top States by Application Volume

1. Madhya Pradesh: Highest number of applications received

2. Uttar Pradesh

3. Kerala

4. Gujarat

5. Chhattisgarh

From 23,38,956 applications submitted by existing Ayushman Bharat beneficiaries, around 22,38,035 have already been approved, demonstrating strong integration with the existing healthcare framework.

Eligibility Criteria for Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card

Unlike many welfare schemes that come with stringent income verification, the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card keeps the eligibility simple and inclusive.

Basic Conditions:

• Minimum Age: 70 years

• Income Limit: None

• Residency: Must be a resident of India

• Documents Required: Aadhaar card, age proof, residence proof, and optionally a mobile number for OTP-based services

There are no caste, community, or economic restrictions. The goal is to provide equitable healthcare access to every elderly citizen, regardless of their social or financial status.

Benefits of the Scheme

The government’s decision to provide ₹5 lakh of health coverage to the elderly is driven by both humanitarian concerns and healthcare policy goals. Here’s how the scheme helps:

• Financial Protection: Reduces the financial burden on families of elderly patients

• Improved Health Outcomes: Access to better hospitals and medical services can lead to longer, healthier lives

• Reduced Dependency: Senior citizens can avail of treatment independently, even without family support

• Encourages Preventive Care: Free check-ups and timely treatment can reduce complications

How to Apply for the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card

Eligible citizens can apply through the following methods:

Online Mode:

• Visit the official Ayushman Bharat website

• Navigate to the “Am I Eligible” section

• Enter your Aadhaar number and verify with OTP

• If eligible, proceed to apply for the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card

Offline Mode:

• Visit your nearest Common Service Center (CSC) or Ayushman Mitra Kendra

• Carry necessary documents

• Fill out the application form and complete biometric verification

Once the card is approved, it will be issued either digitally or in a physical format for hospital use.

Official Website

For more information, eligibility check, and application procedures, visit the official portal:

https://pmjay.gov.in

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card?

It is a health card provided under Ayushman Bharat Yojana for senior citizens aged 70 and above, offering free treatment worth up to ₹5 lakh annually.

Q2: Is there any income limit to apply?

No, there are no income-based restrictions. Anyone aged 70 or above can apply.

Q3: What kind of treatments are covered?

Hospitalization, surgeries, medical procedures, diagnostics, and pre/post-hospital care at empaneled government and private hospitals.

Q4: Can I use this card at private hospitals?

Yes, you can use the card at any hospital listed under the Ayushman Bharat empaneled facilities.

Q5: How do I check if a hospital is empaneled?

You can check the list of empaneled hospitals on the official Ayushman Bharat portal.

Q6: How long does it take to get the card?

Typically, the card is issued within a few days to a week, depending on document verification.

Conclusion

The Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card is a groundbreaking initiative ensuring that India’s elderly population receives the dignity and care they deserve in their golden years. With free health coverage of ₹5 lakh per year, accessible across both public and private hospitals, this scheme removes a significant financial burden and promotes a healthier senior population.

If you or your loved ones are eligible, applying for this card can offer peace of mind and the promise of quality healthcare in times of need.

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