Ayushman Bharat Yojana 2026: Ayushman Bharat Yojana, also known as Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), is one of the Government of India’s most important healthcare schemes. Launched in 2018, the scheme aims to provide free and cashless medical treatment to economically weaker and vulnerable families across the country.
Here’s everything you need to know about Ayushman Bharat Yojana, including eligibility, benefits, and the process to apply for an Ayushman Card.
What is Ayushman Bharat Yojana?
Under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, eligible families receive health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per year per family. This coverage is available for treatment at:
- Government hospitals
- Empanelled private hospitals
The entire treatment cost is borne by the government, ensuring that poor and needy families do not face financial hardship during medical emergencies.
Who is Eligible for Ayushman Bharat Yojana?
Only families listed in the government’s official beneficiary database can avail of the scheme benefits.
Generally, the following categories are eligible:
- Economically weaker sections (EWS)
- Rural households
- Daily wage laborers
- Workers in the unorganized sector
- SC/ST households
- Families identified under SECC (Socio-Economic Caste Census) data
To confirm eligibility, individuals must verify their details before applying for an Ayushman Card.
How to Apply for an Ayushman Card?
To avail of free treatment under PM-JAY, beneficiaries must obtain an Ayushman Card. Here’s the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Visit the Nearest CSC
Go to your nearest Common Service Center (CSC) or authorized Ayushman center.
Step 2: Submit Required Documents
Carry the following documents:
- Aadhaar Card
- Ration Card (if required)
- Registered mobile number
- Other identity/address proof (if applicable)
Step 3: Eligibility Verification
The official will verify your details in the government database.
Step 4: Card Generation
If found eligible, your Ayushman Bharat Card will be generated. You can use this card to avail of cashless treatment at listed hospitals.
Key Benefits of Ayushman Bharat Yojana
The scheme offers multiple healthcare benefits, including:
- Up to ₹5 lakh free health coverage per family per year
- Cashless and paperless treatment
- Coverage at government and empanelled private hospitals
- Pre and post-hospitalization expenses covered
- Treatment for serious illnesses such as:
- Heart diseases
- Kidney disorders
- Cancer
- Major surgeries
The scheme significantly reduces the financial burden of healthcare expenses for low-income families.
Why Ayushman Bharat Yojana is Important
Healthcare costs can push families into poverty. Ayushman Bharat Yojana acts as a financial shield by ensuring that vulnerable sections of society receive quality medical treatment without worrying about expenses.
Millions of families have already benefited from this scheme, making it one of the world’s largest government-funded health insurance programs.
Conclusion
Ayushman Bharat Yojana is a major relief for economically weaker families in India. With ₹5 lakh annual health coverage, cashless hospitalization, and treatment for serious diseases, the scheme provides strong financial and medical support.
If you are eligible, make sure to apply for your Ayushman Card as soon as possible and take full advantage of this government healthcare initiative.
