The cabinet announced a significant expansion in health insurance coverage, approving the extension of the ₹5 lakh scheme to all senior citizens above age 70. This move addresses longstanding gaps in healthcare access for the elderly, especially those with limited financial means. By broadening eligibility, the policy safeguards the rapidly growing senior demographic amid rising chronic illness rates and ensures better access to hospitalisation and advanced treatments.
The scheme’s implementation is underway in several states, with Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh leading efforts to digitise enrolment and streamline claims processing. In alignment with the government’s public health focus, the initiative is seen as a critical step in strengthening social safety nets and improving the long-term health outlook for India’s ageing population.
