Delhi Launches ‘Ayushman Vay Vandana’ Scheme Offering Free Rs 10 Lakh Health Cover to Seniors 70+

With a vision to prioritize the welfare of the elderly, the Delhi government has introduced the Ayushman Vay Vandana Scheme, offering comprehensive health insurance coverage of Rs 10 lakh to citizens aged 70 years and above. The initiative focuses on delivering free health services, annual check-ups, and secure digital health records to ensure the dignity, care, and health security of Delhi’s senior population.

Why in the News?

• The Delhi government, led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, officially launched the Ayushman Vay Vandana scheme on April 28, 2025, providing free health treatment up to Rs 10 lakh for senior citizens aged 70 years and above. The initiative aims to strengthen healthcare accessibility and offer security to the elderly in Delhi. The first set of Vay Vandana health cards were distributed at an event attended by CM Rekha Gupta and Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri.

Key Features of the Ayushman Vay Vandana Scheme

Eligibility: All residents of Delhi aged 70 years and above.

Health Coverage

• Rs 5 lakh coverage under the Central Government’s scheme.
• Additional Rs 5 lakh coverage under the Delhi Government’s scheme.
• Total free health cover: Rs 10 lakh annually.

Health Card

• Each beneficiary will receive a Vay Vandana Health Card.

The card will store,

• Complete medical history.
• Regular health check-up records.
• Emergency health service information.

Free Health Services

• All medical tests for the beneficiaries will be conducted free of cost.
• Includes preventive, diagnostic, and emergency services.

Distribution

• The first set of cards were distributed by CM Rekha Gupta and Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri at the official launch event.

Government’s Vision

• The government aims to ensure no senior citizen in Delhi is deprived of quality healthcare due to financial constraints.
• Promotes a human-centric approach focusing on the elderly’s dignity and well-being.