In a significant move to bolster healthcare access in Odisha, the state government has announced the launch of the combined Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) and Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY), alongside the Ayushman Bayobandana Yojana, starting April 1, 2025.
The decision was finalized during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Lok Seva Bhawan today.
Under the combined AB-PMJAY and GJAY schemes, more than 1.03 crore families will benefit, while the Ayushman Bayobandana Yojana will extend medical facilities to all citizens aged 70 and above, offering up to ₹15 lakh per family in healthcare coverage if senior citizens are included.
The ambitious initiative aims to provide healthcare coverage to over 3.52 crore individuals across the state.
Key Features of the Scheme:
Coverage: Approximately 67.8 lakh families will benefit under AB-PMJAY, while 35.84 lakh families will be covered under GJAY. Together, these schemes will reach over 3.46 crore individuals.
Financial Aid: Men will receive up to ₹5 lakh, women up to ₹10 lakh, and families with members over 70 years will get a maximum of ₹15 lakh in medical coverage.
Elderly Focus: The Bayobandana Yojana will cater to around 23.13 lakh senior citizens, with an additional 6 lakh beneficiaries included under this category.
Co-Branded Cards: Beneficiaries of AB-PMJAY and GJAY will receive a single co-branded card, while a separate card will be issued for the Bayobandana Yojana.
The launch will be marked by events across all 1,438 primary health centers in Odisha, accompanied by a statewide awareness campaign to ensure maximum outreach. Beneficiaries will be able to access treatment at over 29,000 empaneled government and private hospitals nationwide.
The groundwork for this initiative was laid on January 13, 2025, when the Odisha government signed an agreement with the National Health Authority in New Delhi. Today’s announcement builds on that commitment, aiming to make quality healthcare accessible to economically weaker sections and the elderly.
Chief Minister Majhi emphasized that this co-branded healthcare model will set a new benchmark in the state’s public health system. The meeting saw participation from key officials, including Health Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, Development Commissioner Anu Garg, and senior health department representatives.
This initiative is expected to transform Odisha’s healthcare landscape, ensuring affordable and comprehensive medical support for millions.
