Ayushman Bharat Yojana 2026: Medical treatment can be very expensive, especially when a family member needs surgery, hospitalisation or treatment for a serious illness. For low-income and vulnerable families, a large hospital bill can become a major financial burden.
This is where Ayushman Bharat Yojana, officially known as Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), can provide important financial protection to eligible beneficiaries.
Under the scheme, eligible beneficiaries can receive health coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for specified hospitalisation and treatment. The scheme provides cashless treatment at empanelled government and private hospitals, subject to applicable rules and packages.
In this guide, we explain Ayushman Bharat Yojana 2026 in simple language, including its benefits, eligibility, online application process, Ayushman Card, required documents, covered treatments, card download process and helpline number.
What is Ayushman Bharat Yojana?
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) is one of India’s major government-funded health protection schemes.
The scheme aims to provide financial protection against hospitalisation expenses to eligible poor and vulnerable families.
Under PM-JAY, eligible beneficiaries can receive up to ₹5 lakh health cover per family per year for specified secondary and tertiary healthcare treatments.
Treatment under covered packages is provided through empanelled public and private hospitals.
One of the important features of the scheme is that eligible beneficiaries can receive treatment without paying the covered hospitalisation expenses upfront, subject to the applicable package, eligibility and scheme rules.
Key Features of Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY 2026
| Scheme Name: | Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana. |
| Short Name: | AB-PMJAY / PM-JAY. |
| Launch Date: | 23 September 2018. |
| Health Cover: | Up to ₹5 lakh per family per year. |
| Beneficiaries: | Eligible poor and vulnerable families. |
| Implementing Authority: | National Health Authority (NHA). |
| Treatment: | Specified secondary and tertiary hospitalisation. |
| Hospitals: | Empanelled government and private hospitals. |
| Treatment Facility: | Cashless treatment for covered packages. |
| Family Size Limit: | No general family-size restriction under PM-JAY. |
| Portability: | Available at empanelled hospitals across India. |
| Senior Citizens : | Special coverage provision for citizens aged 70+. |
| Helpline: | 14555 / 1800-111-565. |
Important: Scheme rules, eligibility, treatment packages and hospital lists may change from time to time. Always verify the latest information through official government sources before applying or taking treatment.
Benefits of Ayushman Bharat Yojana
Ayushman Bharat Yojana can provide significant financial support to eligible families when they require hospital treatment.
- ₹5 Lakh Health Cover: Eligible families can receive health coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per year for covered medical treatments, subject to the applicable scheme rules and packages.
2. Cashless Treatment: Eligible beneficiaries can receive cashless treatment for covered procedures at empanelled hospitals.
3. Government and Private Hospitals: PM-JAY benefits can be used at eligible empanelled government and private hospitals.
4. No General Family Size Restriction: The scheme does not generally impose a family-size limit under PM-JAY, subject to beneficiary eligibility.
5. Nationwide Portability: A beneficiary can use the portability facility at empanelled hospitals in other states, subject to PM-JAY rules.
6. Coverage of Pre-Existing Diseases: Under PM-JAY, pre-existing diseases are covered from the beginning for eligible beneficiaries, subject to the treatment packages and applicable scheme provisions.
Who is Eligible for Ayushman Bharat Yojana?
Eligibility under the original PM-JAY framework is different from that of a normal private health insurance policy.
PM-JAY eligibility has traditionally been linked to government beneficiary databases and specified socio-economic criteria.
Different eligibility categories have been identified for rural and urban households.
Ayushman Bharat Eligibility for Rural Households
Certain vulnerable rural households may qualify based on specified deprivation criteria.
Examples include:
- Families living in a one-room kutcha house.
- Households without an adult member between 16 and 59 years.
- Households without an adult male member between 16 and 59 years.
- Families having a disabled member and no able-bodied adult member.
- Certain SC/ST households.
- Landless families primarily dependent on manual casual labour.
Certain particularly vulnerable and disadvantaged categories are also covered under specified criteria.
Important: Meeting one condition mentioned above does not automatically guarantee eligibility. Beneficiaries should check their actual status in the official government database.
Ayushman Bharat Eligibility for Urban Households
For urban households, eligibility has included specified occupational categories.
Examples include:
- Domestic workers
- Street vendors
- Construction workers
- Masons
- Plumbers
- Painters
- Welders
- Sanitation workers
- Gardeners
- Tailors
- Artisans
- Drivers
- Rickshaw pullers
- Helpers
- Small shop workers
- Electricians
- Mechanics
- Watchmen
- Washer-men
Again, simply working in one of these occupations does not by itself guarantee eligibility. Actual beneficiary status should be verified through the official system.
Ayushman Bharat Yojana for Senior Citizens Above 70 Years
One of the major developments in the scheme is the expansion of PM-JAY coverage for senior citizens aged 70 years and above.
Eligible senior citizens can receive health coverage under the applicable PM-JAY provisions and can obtain a separate Ayushman Card through the prescribed process.
For senior citizens who are already part of an existing PM-JAY family, additional coverage provisions may apply.
Therefore, senior citizens aged 70 years or above should check their eligibility and complete the applicable card/KYC process.
How to Apply for Ayushman Bharat Yojana Online?
If you want to get an Ayushman Card, the first step is generally to check whether your name is available in the eligible beneficiary database.
The online process may involve the following steps:
Step 1: Visit the Official PM-JAY Portal: Visit the official government portal related to PM-JAY.
Step 2: Select the Eligibility Option: Look for the relevant beneficiary or eligibility-check option, such as “Am I Eligible”.
Step 3: Verify Your Mobile Number: Enter your mobile number and complete OTP verification.
Step 4: Select Your State: Select the required state and other information requested by the portal.
Step 5: Search for Your Beneficiary Record: Search using available details such as:
• Name
• Family ID
• Ration card details
• Aadhaar-related information, where applicable
Step 6: Check Your Eligibility: If your details are available in the beneficiary database, follow the instructions shown on the portal to complete the next steps, including KYC/card generation where applicable.
Note: Government portals can change their interface and application procedure. Always follow the instructions currently displayed on the official portal.
How to Register for Ayushman Bharat Offline?
People who have difficulty using the online system can seek assistance through an authorised Common Service Centre (CSC) or an empaneled hospital.
An authorised representative or Arogya Mitra can help search for the beneficiary record and guide the eligible person through the required verification process.
After successful verification and approval under the applicable process, the Ayushman Card can be generated.
Documents Required for Ayushman Card
The documents required can vary depending on the beneficiary category and current government process.
Generally, you may need:
- Aadhaar Card
- Ration Card or family identification document
- Mobile number
- Family-related information
- Identity and address-related documents
For senior citizens aged 70 years and above, Aadhaar-based identification/KYC can be particularly important.
Before visiting a CSC or hospital, it is advisable to confirm the current document requirements.
How to Download Ayushman Card Online?
If your Ayushman Card has already been generated and the download facility is available, you can download it through the official beneficiary system.
The general process may include:
1. Visit the official PM-JAY beneficiary portal.
2. Select the beneficiary-related option.
3. Log in using your registered mobile number and OTP.
4. Select your state and required details.
5. Search for the beneficiary using the available identification details.
6. View the family member list.
7. Select the relevant beneficiary.
8. Click the Download Card option, if available.
9. Save the card and keep a printed copy if required.
What is Covered Under Ayushman Bharat Yojana?
PM-JAY covers a wide range of specified hospitalisation treatments and healthcare packages.
Depending on the applicable package, coverage may include:
- Hospitalisation
- Surgery
- ICU treatment
- Medicines
- Medical consumables
- Diagnostic tests
- Medical consultations
- Certain implant-related expenses
- Hospital accommodation and food as specified under packages
- Certain treatment-related complications
The scheme covers a large number of treatment packages across different medical specialities.
How Many Treatments are Covered Under PM-JAY?
PM-JAY includes a large number of healthcare packages.
The information provided in the source material refers to approximately 1,929 medical procedures across different speciality areas.
These can include procedures related to areas such as:
- Cardiology
- Oncology
- Orthopaedics
- Surgery
- Critical care
- Other secondary and tertiary healthcare services
However, the exact package list and applicable rates can be updated by the authorities.
Therefore, for a particular surgery or treatment, always verify the current PM-JAY package before proceeding.
Pre and Post-Hospitalisation Coverage
Under specified PM-JAY packages, certain expenses before and after hospitalisation may also be covered.
The information provided indicates:
- Up to 3 days before hospitalisation
- Up to 15 days after hospitalisation
The actual coverage depends on the applicable treatment package and current scheme rules.
What is Not Covered Under Ayushman Bharat Yojana?
Not every medical expense is automatically covered by PM-JAY.
Depending on the scheme rules and applicable packages, certain services may fall outside the coverage.
Examples can include:
- General OPD treatment
- Certain cosmetic procedures
- Certain fertility-related treatments
- Certain rehabilitation services
- Treatments not included in the applicable PM-JAY package
Therefore, beneficiaries should confirm whether their required treatment is covered before taking treatment.
Which Major Treatments Can Be Covered Under PM-JAY?
PM-JAY includes many treatment packages covering different medical specialities.
Examples of procedures available under specified packages can include:
- Cancer treatment
- Cardiac procedures
- Coronary artery bypass surgery
- Certain valve surgeries
- Orthopedic procedures
- ICU treatment
- Various complex surgical procedures
The availability of a particular treatment depends on the current PM-JAY package and the empanelled hospital.
Where Can Ayushman Card Beneficiaries Get Treatment?
Beneficiaries should generally visit a PM-JAY empanelled hospital to use the scheme.
Both government and eligible private hospitals can be part of the PM-JAY network
The scheme also provides portability, allowing eligible beneficiaries to receive covered treatment at empanelled hospitals outside their home state, subject to applicable rules.
Ayushman Bharat Yojana Helpline Number
For questions related to PM-JAY eligibility, Ayushman Card, beneficiary status or other scheme-related information, you can contact the official helpline.
| PM-JAY Helpline: | 14555 1800-111-565 |
Always prefer official government channels for scheme-related information.
Ayushman Bharat Yojana vs Private Health Insurance
Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY and private health insurance are different types of health protection.
| Feature | Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY | Private Health Insurance |
| Purpose | Government health protection for eligible beneficiaries | Insurance purchased by paying a premium |
| Premium | No regular premium for eligible beneficiaries | Premium is generally payable |
| Coverage | Up to ₹5 lakh per family per year under applicable PM-JAY provisions | Depends on the policy |
| Eligibility | Government-defined eligibility/beneficiary criteria | Policy terms and underwriting |
| Hospitals | PM-JAY empanelled hospitals | Insurer’s network hospitals |
| Card | Ayushman Card Health insurance e | card/policy |
| Renewal | Not like a regular private health policy | Generally requires renewal |
| Portability | Available through empanelled hospitals under PM-JAY | Depends on insurance policy terms |
Does Ayushman Bharat Give ₹5 Lakh in Cash?
No.This is one of the most common misunderstandings about the scheme.
The ₹5 lakh amount is not cash deposited into the beneficiary’s bank account.
Instead, it represents the maximum annual health coverage available to eligible beneficiaries for specified treatments under the scheme.
Therefore, you should not consider ₹5 lakh as direct cash assistance.
What Should You Do After Getting an Ayushman Card?
Once your Ayushman Card is generated, keep it safe.
When you need medical treatment:
1. Check whether the hospital is empanelled under PM-JAY.
2. Contact the Ayushman help desk/Arogya Mitra at the hospital.
3. Carry your Ayushman Card and required identity documents.
4. Confirm whether the required treatment is covered under a PM-JAY package.
5. Follow the hospital’s beneficiary verification and approval process.
Important Things to Remember About Ayushman Bharat Yojana
Before using the scheme, keep these points in mind:
- Having an Ayushman Card does not mean every medical treatment is free.
- Treatment must generally fall under the applicable PM-JAY package.
- The hospital should be empanelled under the scheme.
- Do not pay unnecessary charges to unauthorised agents.
- Use official government portals and authorised centres.
- Check the latest scheme rules before applying.
- Senior citizens aged 70+ should check the specific provisions applicable to them.
- Always verify hospital and treatment eligibility before admission.
Conclusion
Ayushman Bharat Yojana (PM-JAY) is an important government health protection initiative designed to reduce the financial burden of hospitalisation for eligible beneficiaries.
With health coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year, cashless treatment at empanelled hospitals and nationwide portability, the scheme can provide valuable support to families during serious medical emergencies.
If you want to benefit from the scheme, the first step is to check your eligibility through the official system. Once eligible, complete the required verification/KYC process and obtain your Ayushman Card.
Before taking treatment, always confirm that the hospital and required treatment are covered under the current PM-JAY package.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ayushman Bharat Yojana
What is Ayushman Bharat Yojana?
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) is a government health protection scheme that provides eligible beneficiaries with health coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for specified treatments.
How can I get ₹5 lakh under Ayushman Bharat?
The ₹5 lakh is not paid as cash. Eligible beneficiaries can receive coverage for specified healthcare treatments at empanelled hospitals according to PM-JAY rules.
How can I apply for an Ayushman Card online?
First, check your eligibility through the official PM-JAY beneficiary system. If your name is found in the eligible database, complete the required verification/KYC process to generate the card.
How can I download my Ayushman Card?
You can use the official beneficiary portal to search your beneficiary record and download the card if the download option is available.
Can people above 70 years get an Ayushman Card?
Yes. The PM-JAY scheme has been expanded to provide health coverage provisions for eligible senior citizens aged 70 years and above. They should complete the applicable eligibility and KYC process.
Are pre-existing diseases covered under PM-JAY?
For eligible beneficiaries, PM-JAY provides coverage for pre-existing diseases from the beginning, subject to the applicable treatment packages and scheme rules.
Can I use an Ayushman Card at a private hospital?
Yes, provided the private hospital is empanelled under PM-JAY and the required treatment is covered under the applicable package.
Can I use my Ayushman Card in another state?
Yes. PM-JAY provides portability, allowing eligible beneficiaries to use covered services at empanelled hospitals in other states, subject to scheme rules.
What is the Ayushman Bharat helpline number?
The PM-JAY helpline numbers are 14555 and 1800-111-565.
Is every Indian citizen eligible for Ayushman Bharat Yojana?
The original PM-JAY eligibility framework is based on specified government beneficiary criteria. However, the scheme has also been expanded to include eligible senior citizens aged 70 years and above. You should check your current eligibility through the official system.
Is Ayushman Bharat the same as private health insurance?
No. Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY is a government health protection scheme for eligible beneficiaries, while private health insurance is purchased from an insurance company by paying a premium.
Does Ayushman Bharat cover cancer treatment?
Certain cancer-related treatments are included in PM-JAY packages. However, beneficiaries should confirm the specific treatment/package and hospital before admission.
Does Ayushman Bharat cover heart surgery?
Certain cardiac procedures and surgeries are included under PM-JAY packages. The exact treatment coverage depends on the applicable package and current scheme rules.
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