The Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana, a health insurance scheme, launched by the Delhi government on Monday offers free medical treatment of up to ₹10 lakh yearly for citizens aged 70 and above. 

What is the health scheme about?

The Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana is an extension of the central government’s Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), designed exclusively for Delhi’s senior residents. The ₹10 lakh coverage includes ₹5 lakh from AB PM-JAY and an extra ₹5 lakh funded by the Delhi government.

The scheme includes secondary and tertiary care hospitalization, diagnostics, surgeries, drugs, and emergency treatments at 110 empanelled hospitals, with plans for future expansion. Beneficiaries  will get Vay Vandana cards that contain medical data and medication information, allowing for easy, cashless access to nearly 2,000 medical services.

Aimed at benefiting around six lakh elderly residents in phases, the scheme is open to all regardless of socio-economic status –  though retired government employees must choose between this and existing schemes like Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), or Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) medical benefits to avoid duplication.

During the launch, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, alongside Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri, distributed the first Vay Vandana cards. 

“Seniors are the roots of our society, and taking care of their every need is our top priority. The country’s development is only possible when every segment of society receives respect and facilities, and the ‘Vaya Vandana’ card is a strong step in this direction,” Gupta said.

Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Singh said: “Most insurance schemes are costly and exclude pre-existing conditions, leaving the elderly deprived of essential care. In such a situation, the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Yojana has emerged as a protective shield for them.”

Registration for the scheme began on April 26, 2025, and is accessible at empaneled hospitals, via the Ayushman app, or through the beneficiary portal. Large-scale enrollment drives are underway at district offices and designated locations across Delhi to ensure widespread participation.

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