The Delhi government is set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Health Authority on March 18 to implement the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), according to a PTI report. With this agreement, Delhi will become the 35th state or Union Territory to adopt the central health insurance scheme.
MoU Signing in the Presence of Union Health Minister
The MoU will be signed in the presence of Union Health Minister JP Nadda. Implementing AB-PMJAY was a key election promise of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during the Delhi Assembly elections. Previously, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government had chosen to follow its own healthcare model and declined to adopt the central scheme.
How AB-PMJAY Supports Economically Weaker Families
As reported by cnbctv18, the Ayushman Bharat scheme aims to provide financial protection to approximately 55 crore beneficiaries from 12.37 crore economically weaker families, covering the bottom 40% of India’s population. Beneficiaries are identified using Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 data, ensuring that support reaches those who need it most.
Expanded Benefits for Senior Citizens
On October 29, 2024, the central government expanded AB-PMJAY to include all senior citizens aged 70 and above. Under this provision, eligible individuals receive free medical treatment of up to ₹5 lakh annually, regardless of their socio-economic status.
Cashless and Paperless Treatment
AB-PMJAY is India’s flagship health insurance program, introduced under the National Health Policy 2017. The scheme allows beneficiaries to access completely cashless and paperless treatment at empanelled government and private hospitals across the country.
Who Will Benefit from AB-PMJAY in Delhi?
The adoption of AB-PMJAY in Delhi will provide relief to:
- Residents previously excluded from the scheme.
- Low-income families in need of free healthcare services.
- Senior citizens, who now qualify for coverage even if they do not meet income criteria.
How to Avail AB-PMJAY Benefits
Eligible individuals can check their status and apply through the Ayushman Bharat portal or visit designated enrollment centers. Once registered, they receive an e-card, which allows them to access cashless treatment at empanelled hospitals nationwide.
With Delhi joining AB-PMJAY, millions of residents will now gain access to affordable and quality healthcare, reducing the financial burden on low-income families.