Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed pride in expanding the Ayushman Yojana to include free treatment for all citizens over 70 years old, through the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card, which is universally accessible regardless of income.

Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Jagat Prakash Nadda said, “The health policy presented today by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has two special features. The first characteristic is that it is holistic; in this, all aspects of preventive, promotional, curative, rehabilitative and palliative have been taken care of. The second feature is that the effort made in bringing all the genres together under one roof is very significant and will always be remembered.”

He also reiterated that the Union Government will provide a health cover of Rs. 5 lakh to any elderly person above 70 years of age, any woman, any caste, any community, and any area, and will make arrangements for their treatment free of cost, adding that this facility will be available throughout their life.

The Prime Minister underscored that “a nation's progress is closely linked to the health of its citizens”, outlining the government's commitment to healthcare through five key pillars: preventive healthcare, early disease detection, affordable treatment and medications, increased doctor availability in smaller towns, and technological advancements in health services.

He stated that India's approach to health is holistic and highlighted recent projects worth over Rs. 13,000 crores, including four Centers of Excellence under the Ayush Health scheme, drone service expansions, new infrastructure at various AIIMS, and the establishment of medical colleges.

He expressed satisfaction with hospitals being built for laborers, which will serve as dedicated treatment centres. The inauguration of pharmaceutical units aimed at manufacturing advanced medicines and quality stents and implants was also mentioned.

Reflecting on the struggles many families face due to illness, especially in poorer households, Modi noted that people previously had to sell their possessions for medical care. He said that “to alleviate this burden, the government introduced the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, which covers up to Rs. 5 lakh in hospitalization costs for the poor”.

He highlighted that around 4 crore individuals have benefited from Ayushman Bharat Yojana scheme, ensuring that they receive treatment without financial strain.