The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, also known as the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, is an initiative launched by the central government to provide healthcare support to India’s vulnerable populations. It helps alleviate the financial burden of expensive medical treatments by offering coverage up to Rs 5 lakh per family each year.
What is the Ayushman Card?
The Ayushman Card is part of the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, designed to offer free healthcare services to eligible families at approved hospitals across India. With coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh annually, this card helps families avoid high medical expenses, ensuring they have access to necessary healthcare without financial strain.
Key Updates:
Guest workers now included: Previously, many guest workers were excluded from healthcare coverage. Under the new changes, these workers are now eligible for the Ayushman Card, and they can apply at their current location.
Expanded coverage for urban workers: The scheme now covers workers in the informal sector, such as domestic helpers, daily wage earners, and street vendors in urban areas. These workers, who were often not covered by employer-based insurance, can now benefit from free healthcare services.
Inclusion of vulnerable rural communities: Landless laborers, rural artisans, and other low-income groups in rural areas are now eligible for coverage under this scheme, expanding its reach to those most in need.
Focus on women and children: Priority is given to families headed by widows or unmarried women, as well as orphaned children, abandoned individuals, and the disabled. This ensures that these vulnerable groups receive the care they need.
Support for the elderly and disabled: The updated eligibility criteria now include the elderly and disabled, ensuring that their often high medical expenses are covered under the scheme.
How to Apply for the Ayushman Card:
Visit the official Ayushman Bharat portal: Begin by checking your eligibility by entering basic details on the official website.
Apply at designated centers: You can also apply by visiting empanelled hospitals or Common Service Centres (CSCs), ensuring you have necessary identification documents such as an Aadhaar card or ration card.
For Online Applications:
After verifying your eligibility, go to pmjay.gov.in to start the online application process.
- Click the ABHA-Registration button and use your Aadhaar card to initiate the application.
- Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number for Aadhaar verification.
- Provide required details like your name, income, and PAN card number.
- Wait for your application to be processed. Once approved, you can download your Ayushman Card.
- After approval, revisit the site and enter your Aadhaar number to access the digital copy of your Ayushman Card.
- Download and print your card to avail cashless treatment at participating hospitals.
By simplifying the application process and expanding coverage, the Ayushman Bharat Scheme is ensuring that more families across India can access quality healthcare without worrying about costs.