Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana gains rapid popularity in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: The Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana (AVVY), a flagship healthcare initiative that provides cashless treatment up to ₹5 lakh per family for all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, is rapidly gaining popularity across Odisha.

According to official sources, the scheme—launched on April 12, 2025—has emerged as a boon for thousands of elderly citizens, irrespective of their economic status. In just four months, more than 9,700 senior citizens have availed free treatment at private hospitals under the programme, while over 5.63 lakh beneficiaries have already been registered through the state’s online platform.

One such case is that of 72-year-old Shyam Sundar Sahoo from Rangamatia village in Bhubaneswar, who was saved by timely treatment under the scheme. On August 12, he suffered severe chest pain and was rushed to a private hospital where doctors diagnosed him with coronary artery blockage. He successfully underwent angiogram and stent implantation—completely free of cost—thanks to his recent AVVY enrollment facilitated by local Health and Family Welfare Department officials.

“Due to the AVVY scheme, we were able to save our father’s life,” said his daughter, Sasmita Sahoo, expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.

Officials said Sahoo’s story is one among many where the scheme has proved life-saving for elderly citizens in Odisha. With rapid enrollment and growing awareness, AVVY is being hailed as a major step forward in ensuring healthcare security for the state’s senior citizens.