Launch of Ayushman Health Cards for Delhi Residents Aged 70 and Above Set for April 28: Health Minister
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Synopsis
Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh revealed that Ayushman Health cards for six lakh senior citizens will be launched on April 28. The initiative is part of the Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY scheme, aiming to provide health coverage for the elderly. The government also unveiled the Heat Action Plan to combat heatwave challenges in the city.
Key Takeaways
- Launch of Ayushman Health cards for seniors on April 28.
- Approximately 36 lakh people to benefit from the scheme.
- Enhancements in hospital facilities to combat heat issues.
- 3,000 water coolers and cooling shades planned for Delhi.
- Training for over 1.4 million students on heatwave management.
New Delhi, April 21 (NationPress) Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh announced on Monday that Ayushman Health cards will be introduced for six lakh citizens aged over 70 on April 28.
According to an official, approximately 30 lakh individuals from over 6.5 lakh families, which includes an estimated six lakh senior citizens, will benefit from the Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY scheme.
Expanding on the Heat Action Plan 2025 initiated by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the Health Minister remarked that special heatstroke wards will be established in government hospitals.
Hospitals are on high alert to address heat stroke cases, with air-conditioned Centralised Accidents and Trauma Services (CATS) ready to assist those requiring hospitalization, he noted.
Speaking to the media, the Minister highlighted that facilities in hospitals have been enhanced to provide patients with cold drinking water and air-conditioned waiting zones.
Previously, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda stated that with the rollout of AB PM-JAY in Delhi, all senior citizens aged 70 and above will be eligible for coverage under the Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana, which offers Rs 5 lakh in free health coverage regardless of their socio-economic background.
This initiative will ensure health cover for all eligible senior citizens, including coverage for pre-existing conditions from day one.
It is anticipated that over six lakh senior citizens in Delhi from approximately 4.5 lakh families will benefit from this.
Regarding the Heat Action Plan, Minister Pankaj Singh mentioned that the state government has released various brochures containing detailed information on heatstroke management units, CAT infrastructure, and disaster-ready schools.
He emphasized the government's objective is to prepare every school and hospital in Delhi to effectively manage heatwaves.
“Through awareness, training, and essential resources, we will guarantee the safety of every citizen,” he stated.
Pankaj Singh indicated that the Heat Action Plan 2025 has been developed in collaboration with the National and Delhi Disaster Management Authorities.
This initiative includes the installation of 3,000 water coolers throughout the city and the construction of cooling shades on footpaths to provide relief to pedestrians from the sun.
He further stated that the Delhi government will implement robust preventive measures extending from slums to hospitals.
The Health Minister added that over 1.4 million students in more than 5,500 Delhi schools will receive training and awareness regarding disaster management and heatwave protection.
