Healthcare expenses can place a heavy financial burden on low- and middle-income families. To reduce this pressure, the Government of India launched Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) — one of the world’s largest publicly funded health insurance schemes. Under this initiative, eligible families can receive cashless treatment coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per year at empanelled hospitals across India.
The Ayushman Card, also known as the PM-JAY card, is essential for availing these benefits. In this comprehensive guide, we explain eligibility criteria, required documents, the online and offline application process, benefits, and frequently asked questions — all in a structured format designed for clarity and high-value readers.
What Is an Ayushman Card?
The Ayushman Card is an official identification card issued to beneficiaries of PM-JAY. It enables:
- Cashless hospitalization
- Coverage up to ₹5 lakh per family per year
- Access to public and private empanelled hospitals
- Coverage for pre- and post-hospitalization expenses
- No restriction on family size, age, or gender
The scheme primarily targets economically vulnerable families identified through the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) data.
Key Benefits of Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Annual Coverage | Up to ₹5,00,000 per family |
| Mode of Treatment | Cashless & paperless |
| Hospital Network | 25,000+ empanelled hospitals |
| Coverage Type | Secondary & tertiary care |
| Family Size Limit | No limit |
| Pre-existing Diseases | Covered from Day 1 |
This structure makes the scheme particularly attractive for families concerned about major surgeries, cancer treatment, cardiac procedures, and other high-cost medical care.
Eligibility Criteria for Ayushman Card
Eligibility is determined primarily through SECC 2011 data. Beneficiaries generally include:
In Rural Areas:
- Families with no adult earning member
- SC/ST households
- Landless laborers
- Families living in one-room kutcha houses
- Manual scavenger households
In Urban Areas:
- Street vendors
- Domestic workers
- Construction workers
- Drivers, sanitation workers, security guards
- Ragpickers and other informal workers
You can check eligibility through the official PM-JAY portal or by visiting a Common Service Centre (CSC).
Documents Required for Ayushman Card
Applicants typically need:
- Aadhaar Card
- Ration Card
- Mobile number linked with Aadhaar
- Residence proof
- Family identification proof (if required)
Biometric verification is often conducted during registration.
How To Apply for Ayushman Card (Online Process)
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to the official PM-JAY website.
Step 2: Check Eligibility
Click on “Am I Eligible” and enter your mobile number. Verify using OTP.
Step 3: Search Your Name
You can search using:
- Mobile number
- Ration card number
- SECC name
- Aadhaar number
Step 4: Complete e-KYC
If eligible, proceed with Aadhaar-based e-KYC verification.
Step 5: Submit Application
Upload required documents and confirm details.
Step 6: Download Ayushman Card
Once approved, download and print your Ayushman Card.
How To Apply Offline
If you prefer offline registration:
- Visit the nearest Common Service Centre (CSC) or empanelled hospital.
- Provide Aadhaar and ration card details.
- Complete biometric verification.
- Receive your Ayushman Card after verification.
CSC operators may charge a nominal service fee.
How To Download Ayushman Card
After approval:
- Visit the PM-JAY portal.
- Log in using your registered mobile number.
- Verify via OTP.
- Download the digital card.
- Print and laminate for future use.
You can also store the digital version on your smartphone.
Diseases and Treatments Covered
PM-JAY covers over 1,500 medical packages, including:
- Cardiac surgeries
- Kidney transplant
- Cancer treatment
- Orthopedic procedures
- Neurological disorders
- Neonatal and pediatric care
Both pre-hospitalization (3 days) and post-hospitalization (15 days) expenses are included.
Important Points to Remember
- No premium payment required from beneficiaries.
- Benefits are portable across India.
- Treatment is completely cashless at empanelled hospitals.
- The scheme is funded jointly by the central and state governments.
Always verify hospital empanelment before admission.
Common Reasons for Application Rejection
- Name not found in SECC database
- Aadhaar mismatch
- Incorrect family details
- Incomplete e-KYC
If rejected, visit a CSC for clarification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is Ayushman Card free?
Yes, eligible beneficiaries do not pay any premium.
Q2. Can I add new family members?
Family details must match SECC records; modifications depend on state guidelines.
Q3. Is the scheme available in all states?
Most states implement PM-JAY, though some operate under different names.
Q4. Can private hospitals accept Ayushman Card?
Yes, if they are empanelled under PM-JAY.
Conclusion
The Ayushman Card under Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY is a powerful healthcare security tool for economically vulnerable families in India. With ₹5 lakh annual coverage, nationwide portability, and cashless hospitalization, it significantly reduces the financial risks associated with major medical treatments.
Applying for the Ayushman Card is simple — whether online or offline — provided your family is eligible under SECC data. By understanding the process clearly and ensuring accurate documentation, you can secure life-saving healthcare coverage for your family.
For families seeking financial stability and protection against rising medical costs, obtaining an Ayushman Card is not just a benefit — it is a necessity.
