In a major move aimed at infrastructure development and welfare schemes, the Union Cabinet announced several key decisions today. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw briefed the media on the government’s significant steps regarding the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, the new electric vehicle subsidy scheme, and the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY).
Universal Coverage for Senior Citizens under Ayushman Bharat Scheme
The government has decided to provide universal coverage for all citizens aged 70 and above under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. A budget allocation of ₹3,000 crore has been approved for this purpose.
Senior citizens who are already covered under Ayushman Bharat will receive a shared top-up coverage of ₹5 lakh, meaning the total coverage will be shared among senior citizens within a family.
For those not previously covered under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, a new coverage of ₹5 lakh will be provided.
Citizens who are covered under any central or state government schemes will have the option to choose between Ayushman Bharat and their existing coverage.
This decision is expected to benefit around 4.5 crore families and approximately 6 crore senior citizens.
Expansion of PM Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)
The government has allocated ₹70,125 crore for the expansion of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). Key highlights of the scheme include:
62,500 kilometers of rural roads will be constructed.
25,000 villages will be connected to main roads, enhancing rural connectivity and development.
Introduction of PM E-Drive: New Electric Vehicle Subsidy Scheme
The Union Cabinet also approved a new electric vehicle (EV) subsidy scheme called “PM E-Drive” with a budget of ₹10,900 crore. The scheme is aimed at boosting electric mobility in the world’s third-largest automotive industry.
The PM E-Drive scheme will primarily focus on providing subsidies for electric two-wheelers, trucks, ambulances, and buses.
The scheme excludes electric cars but emphasizes the development of charging infrastructure.
Mission Mausam: ₹2,000 Crore Allocated for Advanced Weather Prediction
In another significant decision, the government has allocated ₹2,000 crore for Mission Mausam, an initiative to enhance weather prediction accuracy using advanced technology.
The mission will focus on integrating AI and machine learning (ML) technologies to improve weather forecasts based on data analysis.
These cabinet decisions are expected to have a long-lasting impact on infrastructure development, senior citizen welfare, and the promotion of electric mobility in India.
