A major update in 2026 has increased interest in the Ayushman Bharat health scheme.

Senior citizens aged 70 years and above are now eligible under the updated guidelines, even if their income category was not previously covered under the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) database.

This expansion has led to a surge in registrations across India. But many applicants are still unsure about the correct process and eligibility details.

Here’s everything you need to know.

What Has Changed in Ayushman Card 2026?

Under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), eligible families receive up to ₹5 lakh annual health cover per family for secondary and tertiary hospitalisation.

New in 2026:

• Citizens aged 70+ are eligible under an expanded coverage category.
• A separate Ayushman Vay Vandana Card may be issued for senior citizens.
• Registration is now fully digital via the NHA portal and Ayushman App.
• Aadhaar-based e-KYC authentication is mandatory.

This update aims to increase healthcare security for elderly citizens.

Who Is Eligible in 2026?

Eligibility includes:

1. Rural Households

• Landless labourers
• SC/ST families
• Families living in kucha houses

2. Urban Occupational Groups

• Street vendors
• Domestic workers
• Construction labourers

3. Senior Citizens (70+)

Regardless of income category, eligible senior citizens can now register for benefits.

However, eligibility must still be verified in the official beneficiary database.

How to Register for Ayushman Card in 2026 (Step-by-Step)

If your Aadhaar is linked with your mobile number, follow these steps:

Step 1

Visit the official NHA portal:
https://beneficiary.nha.gov.in

Step 2

Login as “Beneficiary” using OTP verification.

Step 3

Select:

• State
• Scheme (PMJAY)
• District

Step 4

Search your record using:

• Aadhaar number
• Family ID
• Ration card

Step 5

If status shows “Pending” or “Not Generated,” complete e-KYC.

Authentication methods:

• Aadhaar OTP
• Fingerprint
• Face authentication (via Ayushman App)

Approval usually takes 24–48 hours.

Ayushman App Makes Registration Easier

The Ayushman App now includes a Face Authentication feature.

This allows senior citizens to complete identity verification without fingerprint scanners — especially useful in rural areas.

Why Some Applications Get Rejected

One of the biggest reasons in 2026:

Aadhaar mismatch error

Even small spelling differences between:

• Aadhaar card
• Ration card
• Beneficiary database

can lead to rejection.

Before applying:

• Ensure your name and date of birth match exactly
• Update Aadhaar at an official Aadhaar centre if required

Offline Registration Option

If you cannot register online:

Visit:

• Common Service Centre (CSC)
• PMJAY kiosk at government hospitals

Provide:

• Aadhaar card
• Ration card

Biometric verification will be done, and you may receive a printed card copy.

What Benefits Does Ayushman Card Offer?

Eligible beneficiaries receive:

• Up to ₹5 lakh annual coverage
• Cashless hospitalisation
• Coverage at 29,000+ empanelled hospitals
• No premium payment required

The scheme covers surgeries, hospital stays, and major medical treatments.

Final Advice for Senior Citizens

If you or your family member is 70 years or older:

• Check eligibility immediately
• Complete Aadhaar verification
• Avoid agents demanding extra fees
• Use official government portals only

The 2026 update has expanded access, but correct documentation is essential.