Ayushman Bharat for Senior Citizens 70+ – Complete Guide
Written by Aruna Sane
Last reviewed: 15 September 2026 | Senior Citizen Information Researcher
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) is India's flagship health insurance scheme providing free treatment worth up to ₹5 lakh per family per year. In 2024, the government expanded coverage to include all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, regardless of their family income. This expansion has been a game-changer for elderly healthcare in India.
This guide covers the complete details of Ayushman Bharat for senior citizens aged 70+, including eligibility, benefits, hospital network, and the application process.
What Changed for Senior Citizens 70+?
Before the 2024 expansion, Ayushman Bharat was available only to families covered under the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) database. The key changes for seniors are:
- Universal coverage for 70+: All citizens aged 70 and above are now eligible, regardless of economic status.
- Additional ₹5 lakh top-up: Seniors who already had coverage under family floater plans get an additional ₹5 lakh specifically for themselves.
- No income criterion: Unlike earlier, there is no BPL or income requirement for seniors aged 70+.
Eligibility Criteria
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Age | 70 years or above (as on date of application) |
| Citizenship | Indian citizen |
| Income | No income restriction for 70+ category |
| Family Coverage | Additional ₹5 lakh for the senior member |
| Aadhaar | Required for identification and KYC |
Benefits Under Ayushman Bharat for Seniors
- Hospitalisation cover: Up to ₹5 lakh per year per senior citizen
- Cashless treatment: No out-of-pocket payment at empanelled hospitals
- Pre and post-hospitalisation: Coverage for 3 days before and 15 days after hospitalisation
- Day care procedures: Covers 1,929 medical packages including surgeries, day care, and critical care
- Transport allowance: ₹100 per day for up to 3 days for transport to hospital
- No restrictions on family size: All members of the family are covered
- Portable coverage: Use the card at any empanelled hospital across India
Medical Procedures Covered
Ayushman Bharat covers a wide range of treatments relevant to senior citizens:
- Cardiac surgeries (bypass, angioplasty, valve replacement)
- Joint replacement surgeries (knee, hip)
- Cataract surgery
- Cancer treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, surgery)
- Dialysis
- Neurological procedures
- Pulmonary treatments
- Coronary artery bypass grafting
How to Apply for Ayushman Bharat Card
Online Method
- Visit pmjay.gov.in or download the Ayushman Bharat app.
- Click on "Am I Eligible" to check your eligibility.
- Enter your mobile number and verify with OTP.
- Enter your Aadhaar number and state of residence.
- Search by name, mobile number, or ration card number.
- If eligible, download your Ayushman Bharat card (e-card).
Offline Method
- Visit the nearest Common Service Centre (CSC) or Ayushman Bharat empanelled hospital.
- Carry your Aadhaar card and age proof.
- The operator will verify your details and generate your Ayushman card.
- Receive your physical or digital Ayushman card.
Network Hospitals
India has over 29,000 empanelled hospitals under Ayushman Bharat. You can find the nearest hospital by:
- Visiting pmjay.gov.in ? Find Hospital
- Using the Ayushman Bharat mobile app
- Calling the helpline: 14555 or 1800-111-565
Ayushman Bharat vs Other Health Schemes for Seniors
| Feature | Ayushman Bharat | CGHS | State Schemes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coverage | ₹5 lakh/year | Unlimited (empanelled) | Varies by state |
| Eligibility | 70+ (all seniors) | Central govt employees | State-specific |
| Hospital Network | 29,000+ across India | CGHS empanelled only | State empanelled |
| Cashless | Yes | Yes | Varies |
| Annual Fee | Free | Contributory | Free or nominal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ayushman Bharat free for senior citizens aged 70+?
Yes. There is no premium or fee for senior citizens aged 70 and above. The coverage is completely free under PM-JAY.
Can I use Ayushman Bharat along with my private health insurance?
Yes. Ayushman Bharat can be used as a top-up alongside your existing health insurance. You can claim under both schemes.
What if my name is not in the SECC list?
For seniors aged 70+, the SECC list is not required. All citizens above 70 are eligible regardless of their SECC status.
How do I download my Ayushman card?
Visit pmjay.gov.in, log in with your Aadhaar number, and download the e-card from the "Download Card" section.
What documents are needed for Ayushman card?
Only your Aadhaar card is needed. For seniors aged 70+, age proof (as per Aadhaar date of birth) is sufficient.
Is there a helpline for Ayushman Bharat?
Yes. Call 14555 (toll-free) or 1800-111-565 for any queries related to Ayushman Bharat.