Bhubaneswar- In a mission to ensure healthcare security for the elderly, the Odisha government is set to launch a 10-day statewide enrolment campaign under the Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana (AVVY) from June 12 to 21. The scheme aims to provide Rs 5 lakh annual health insurance coverage to every citizen aged 70 years and above, irrespective of income level or prior inclusion in any other scheme.
Despite its recent rollout, enrolment figures have remained low — with only 3.45 lakh beneficiaries registered out of the estimated 23 lakh eligible elderly population. The upcoming campaign is designed to bridge this gap and achieve 100% saturation across all districts.
Health and Family Welfare Department Secretary Aswathy S has instructed all Chief District Medical Officers (CDMOs) to coordinate closely with grassroots-level workers — including ASHAs, ANMs, village-level workers, and Common Service Centre (CSC) operators — for effective mobilisation. Detailed gram panchayat-wise action plans are being prepared to ensure no eligible beneficiary is left behind.
During the campaign, elderly citizens will be notified in advance to gather at specific venues when the Bikash Vahan (mobile health and registration vehicle) arrives. On-the-spot digital enrolment will be facilitated by CSC staff, simplifying the process for rural and remote populations.
The AVVY scheme, launched in April by Union Health Minister JP Nadda, along with Ayushman Bharat – PM Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) and Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana, is unique in its non-discriminatory coverage. It ensures universal access to healthcare for Odisha’s elderly population, regardless of their financial or social status.
Officials believe this focused campaign will not only boost enrolment numbers but also reinforce the state’s commitment to equitable and inclusive healthcare. With the elderly among the most vulnerable groups, the government’s move signals a strong step toward healthy ageing with dignity.
