The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), the world’s largest government-funded health assurance scheme, has witnessed major developments in January 2026. From a high-level national meeting in Odisha to the rollout of benefits for senior citizens, the scheme continues to expand its footprint.
In a significant move this week, the National Health Authority (NHA) hosted a “Chintan Shivir” in Bhubaneswar to streamline digital health services and improve hospital claim settlements. With over 42.9 crore Ayushman Cards now issued across India, here is everything you need to know about the latest updates, the new eligibility for the elderly, and how the scheme is changing in 2026.
Major Updates from the January 2026 ‘Chintan Shivir’
On January 19-20, 2026, the National Health Authority organized a two-day strategy session (Chintan Shivir) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The goal was to fix gaps in the current system and ensure patients face no hurdles while seeking treatment.
Key Announcements:
- New Benefit Manual: The NHA launched the Health Benefit Package (HBP) Manual – Part 2. This document simplifies the rates and procedures for various medical treatments, ensuring hospitals are paid on time and patients are not overcharged.
- Best Practices Compendium: A new report was released highlighting success stories from different states, aiming to replicate efficient models across the country.
- Digital Integration: A major focus was placed on the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). The government is pushing for 100% digital health records, meaning your prescription and test reports will soon be available online through your Ayushman ID, removing the need to carry physical files.
Senior Citizens (70+) Now Covered: No Income Limit
The most discussed update for 2026 remains the expansion of PMJAY to all senior citizens aged 70 years and above.
Unlike the general scheme which is based on economic status (SECC 2011 data), this specific benefit for the elderly is universal.
- Who is eligible: Anyone aged 70 or older, regardless of their income (rich or poor).
- The Benefit: A distinct cover of ₹5 Lakh per year on a family basis for senior citizens.
- How to Apply: Eligible seniors must register specifically for this card. If a family already has an Ayushman card, the senior members will get a separate “top-up” cover so they don’t have to share the limit with younger family members.
Current Status of PMJAY in India (2026)
As of late January 2026, the scheme has reached historic numbers.
- Total Cards Issued: Over 42.9 Crore.
- Budget Allocation: The estimated budget for the 2025-26 financial year has been increased to ₹9,406 Crore, reflecting the government’s focus on healthcare.
- Hospital Network: Beneficiaries can avail of cashless treatment at over 27,000 empaneled public and private hospitals across India.
Why This Matters
For millions of Indian families, a sudden medical emergency often leads to debt. PMJAY acts as a safety shield. The recent updates are crucial because they address two main complaints: delayed treatments due to technical errors and exclusion of the middle-class elderly.
By streamlining the digital process and including all 70+ citizens, the scheme is moving towards true Universal Health Coverage.
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What Happens Next?
Following the Odisha meeting, state governments are expected to ramp up the distribution of the new Ayushman Cards, especially for the 70+ age group.
- Immediate Action: Hospitals have been instructed to adopt the new Health Benefit Package rates immediately.
- Upcoming Drive: A special drive to register “missing” beneficiaries (those eligible but not yet enrolled) is expected to launch in February 2026 in states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I get an Ayushman Card if I am not in the BPL list but I am 72 years old?
Yes. All citizens aged 70 years and above are eligible for the Ayushman Bharat card, irrespective of their income or economic status. You can apply for the senior citizen card separately.
Q2: What was the main outcome of the meeting in Odisha?
The NHA launched a new Health Benefit Package Manual to simplify treatment rates and focused on connecting PMJAY with digital health records (ABDM) for faster service.
Q3: How much insurance cover do I get under PMJAY?
The scheme provides a health cover of ₹5 Lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization.
Q4: Is the Ayushman Card valid in private hospitals?
Yes, the card is valid in all government hospitals and empaneled private hospitals across India. You can check the list of hospitals on the official PMJAY website.
Q5: How do I download my Ayushman Card online?
You can download your card by visiting the official website (benficiary.nha.gov.in), logging in with your mobile number, and verifying via Aadhaar OTP.