The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), known as the Ayushman Bharat scheme, continues to expand healthcare access for India’s vulnerable populations. Recent updates to the Ayushman Card eligibility criteria aim to provide financial protection for a larger group, covering medical treatment costs up to ₹5 lakh per family annually.

Here’s a detailed look at the changes and how they impact the scheme’s beneficiaries:

What is the Ayushman Card?

The Ayushman Card is issued under the Ayushman Bharat scheme.

It grants eligible families free healthcare services at empanelled hospitals across India.

With coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per year, the card helps families avoid hefty medical bills for secondary and tertiary care services.

Key changes in eligibility

Migrant workers now covered: Migrant workers, who often lack stable access to healthcare, are now eligible. They can apply for the Ayushman Card in their current location.

More urban beneficiaries: Informal sector workers in urban areas, including domestic help, daily wage earners, and street vendors, are now eligible. These workers, who typically lack employer-provided insurance, can now access free healthcare services.

Rural vulnerable communities added: Landless labourers, rural artisans, and other low-income groups are now included under the scheme.

Special focus on women and children: The scheme prioritises households led by widows or single women, orphaned children, and abandoned or disabled individuals.

Elderly and disabled individuals included: The inclusion of elderly and disabled individuals in the updated eligibility criteria acknowledges their higher medical expenses.

How to apply for the Ayushman Card

Eligible individuals can apply for the Ayushman Card through the following steps:

• Visit the official Ayushman Bharat portal and check eligibility by entering basic details.
• Applicants can visit empanelled hospitals or Common Service Centers (CSCs) to apply.
• Ensure you have the required identification, such as Aadhaar card or ration card, to complete the application process.

–With PTI inputs