The Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), also known as Ayushman Bharat, is the world’s largest publicly funded health assurance scheme, providing cashless treatment up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for over 10 crore Indian families.
What is the PMJAY Scheme?
Launched by the Government of India, PMJAY aims to ensure every underprivileged family can access necessary secondary and tertiary healthcare without financial hardship. The scheme covers hospitalizations, surgeries, diagnostics, ICU, and even pre-existing illnesses from day one.
Alt text: Sample Ayushman Bharat PMJAY card
Key Benefits
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Cashless treatment at public and private empanelled hospitals.
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₹5 lakh coverage per family per year.
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All pre-existing diseases are covered with no age or family limit.
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Surgery and post-hospitalization expenses included.
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Paperless processes with e-cards.
Eligibility Criteria
Rural Households
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Living in a single room (kucha walls/roof);
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No adult member aged 16–59;
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Female-headed household with no adult male;
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SC/ST, landless, or destitute households;
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Families relying largely on manual labor.
Urban Households
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Ragpickers, street vendors, domestic/transport workers, sanitation staff, etc.—as classified under the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC).
Senior Citizens
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Anyone aged 70 or above is automatically eligible—no income test.
Alt text: PMJAY e-card and hospital queue illustration
Application Process for PMJAY
Step 1: Check Eligibility
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Visit the official PMJAY portal (https://mera.pmjay.gov.in).
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Enter your mobile number and captcha, then verify with OTP.
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Search your name using mobile, ration card, or household details.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
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Aadhaar Card (mandatory)
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Ration Card or Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) proof
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Address proof (Voter ID, electricity bill, etc.)
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Passport-size photographs
Step 3: Locate the Nearest CSC/Empanelled Hospital
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Use the “Hospitals” search on the PMJAY portal or find your nearest Common Service Centre (CSC).
Step 4: Registration & Verification
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Present documents at the CSC or hospital helpdesk.
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Get your biometrics and details verified by the operator.
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If eligible, your PMJAY e-card will be generated and issued instantly.
Step 5: Avail Benefits
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Show your PMJAY card at empanelled hospitals for cashless treatment.
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No payment required for covered services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there any registration fee?
No, PMJAY is a government scheme—registration and treatment are free for eligible families.
How do I know if I’m already covered?
Search your details on the official PMJAY website by name, mobile, or ration card.
Can I change details on my PMJAY card?
You can update errors at your nearest CSC with supporting documents.
Conclusion
PMJAY brings essential healthcare within reach of every vulnerable Indian family. Check your eligibility, complete the application, and use your e-card for free treatment at India’s best hospitals.