India’s healthcare system has taken a major leap forward with the Ayushman Bharat Yojana (ABY), one of the world’s largest health protection programs. Launched in 2018 by the Government of India, this flagship scheme aims to provide financial protection and access to quality healthcare for economically vulnerable families across the country.
With rising medical costs and the growing need for affordable healthcare, Ayushman Bharat is a game-changer, offering health insurance coverage up to ₹5 lakh per family per year. By 2025, the program continues to expand, covering more families and strengthening India’s public and private healthcare infrastructure.
What is Ayushman Bharat Yojana?
Ayushman Bharat Yojana, also known as Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), is a central government health insurance program designed to:
- Provide financial protection against high medical expenses
- Ensure access to secondary and tertiary healthcare for eligible families
- Promote preventive and primary healthcare services through Health and Wellness Centres
- Reduce out-of-pocket expenditure for hospitalization and treatment
The scheme is particularly targeted at economically weaker sections, rural and urban poor, and families identified under the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011.
Eligibility Criteria for Ayushman Bharat
To ensure the scheme reaches the most vulnerable, the government has defined clear eligibility criteria:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Beneficiary | Economically vulnerable families identified under SECC 2011 |
| Family Size | Coverage is provided per family, not individual members |
| Age Limit | All age groups are eligible, including newborns and senior citizens |
| Income Criteria | Families with annual income below the poverty line, as per state-specific thresholds |
| Documentation | SECC ID, ration card, Aadhaar, or any government-approved ID |
Eligible families can avail cashless and paperless treatment at any empanelled hospital across India.
How to Apply for Ayushman Bharat Yojana
Applying for Ayushman Bharat is simple and straightforward. Beneficiaries can enroll and verify their eligibility both online and offline.
Online Application Process
- Visit the official PM-JAY website: https://pmjay.gov.in
- Click on “Am I Eligible” and enter details such as name, mobile number, and state
- Verify eligibility using the SECC database or ration card details
- Download the Ayushman Bharat ID card for hospitalization and treatment
Offline Application Process
Beneficiaries can also visit nearest Common Service Centers (CSCs), government hospitals, or health centers. Officials will assist with:
- Registration in the PM-JAY portal
- Verification of documents
- Issuance of the Ayushman Bharat health card
Coverage and Benefits Under Ayushman Bharat
Ayushman Bharat provides comprehensive coverage for secondary and tertiary care, including hospitalization, surgeries, and day-care treatments.
| Benefit Type | Details | Coverage Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Hospitalization | Cashless treatment for listed diseases | Up to ₹5 lakh per family per year |
| Daycare Procedures | Cataract, dialysis, chemotherapy, etc. | Included in coverage |
| Pre & Post Hospitalization | Expenses 15 days before & 15 days after | Included |
| Ambulance Services | Emergency transport to empanelled hospitals | Covered under scheme |
| Health & Wellness Centers | Preventive care and screenings | Free or minimal cost |
| Empanelled Hospitals | Government and private hospitals across India | Nationwide coverage |
This ensures that families don’t have to bear the financial burden of major medical expenses, making quality healthcare accessible to all.
Key Advantages of Ayushman Bharat Yojana
The scheme offers several advantages for beneficiaries:
- Cashless Treatment: No out-of-pocket expense for eligible procedures
- Wide Coverage: Secondary and tertiary healthcare, including surgeries and chronic disease management
- Pan-India Network: Empanelled hospitals in every state and district
- Inclusive Health Protection: Covers all family members regardless of age
- Preventive Healthcare: Health and Wellness Centers provide regular check-ups and early detection
Overview Table of Ayushman Bharat Yojana
| Feature | Details | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|---|
| Beneficiary | Economically vulnerable families (SECC 2011) | Nationwide target group |
| Coverage Amount | Up to ₹5 lakh per family per year | Significant financial protection |
| Mode of Application | Online & Offline | Easy registration via portal or CSC |
| Hospitals Covered | Government & private empanelled hospitals | Cashless treatment nationwide |
| Age Eligibility | All age groups | Inclusive for newborns to seniors |
| Documentation Required | SECC ID, ration card, Aadhaar | Mandatory for verification |
How to Check Ayushman Bharat Status
Beneficiaries can track and verify their status online to ensure smooth access to treatment:
- Visit the PM-JAY portal
- Click on “Check Your Status”
- Enter Ayushman Bharat ID, SECC number, or ration card details
- Verify eligibility and hospital empanelment
This ensures transparency and helps families access cashless treatment without delays.
FAQs
Q1: Who is eligible for Ayushman Bharat Yojana?
A – Economically vulnerable families identified under SECC 2011.
Q2: What is the maximum coverage under the scheme?
A – Up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for hospitalization and listed procedures.
Q3: Can I avail treatment in private hospitals?
A – Yes, any empanelled private or government hospital across India provides cashless treatment.