How to Apply for Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY)
Explore the Ayushman Bharat PMJAY scheme for free healthcare coverage for low-income families in India. Learn how to apply and check eligibility!

Table of Contents
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) is a flagship healthcare scheme initiated by the Government of India to provide accessible and affordable healthcare to economically disadvantaged sections of society. This initiative, launched under the National Health Authority, offers free healthcare coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year.
It aims to protect over 50 crore citizens from the financial stress of medical emergencies and provide them with quality healthcare services across the country.
If you or your family are eligible for the scheme and are looking to enroll, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you apply for Ayushman Bharat PMJAY.
Looking for affordable homes that match your family's healthcare coverage and lifestyle needs? Explore verified property options in eligible areas.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for AB-PMJAY
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
To begin the application process, visit the official Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission website at https://abdm.gov.in.
Here, you can find detailed information about:
- Scheme benefits
- Eligibility criteria
- How to apply
You can also check your eligibility by entering your mobile number or ration card number on the portal. This user-friendly platform helps you access all relevant details to move forward with the application.
Step 2: Aadhaar or Ration Card Verification at a PMJAY Kiosk
After checking eligibility, visit a nearby Ayushman Bharat PMJAY kiosk for document verification. Carry your:
- Aadhaar card (preferred)
- Or ration card or any valid government ID (e.g., voter ID)
Kiosk officials will verify your details using the scheme’s official database.
Step 3: Submit Family Identification Proofs
You’ll need to provide documents to confirm the eligibility of your entire family. This could include:
- Income certificates
- Birth certificates
- Voter ID cards or other valid ID proofs
This step ensures that all eligible members are covered under the scheme.
Step 4: Get Your Ayushman Bharat e-Card with Unique AB-PMJAY ID
Once your details are successfully verified, you’ll receive an Ayushman Bharat e-card. This card includes a unique AB-PMJAY ID and acts as proof of your enrollment.
Keep the e-card safely — you will need it to access cashless treatment at any empaneled hospital.
Benefits of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY)
This scheme ensures that beneficiaries receive comprehensive medical care without facing a financial burden. Here are the major benefits:
1. Free Medical Consultations, Treatment, and Examinations
- Covers full expenses for consultations and treatments
- Includes outpatient and inpatient services
2. Pre-Hospitalisation Coverage (up to 3 Days)
- Costs for diagnostic tests and doctor consultations for 3 days prior to admission are covered
3. Medicines and Medical Consumables
- Full coverage for necessary drugs, injections, and supplies during treatment
4. Non-Intensive and Intensive Care Services (ICU Care)
- Expenses covered for both general ward and ICU admissions
5. Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests
- Includes all essential tests needed during treatment
6. Medical Implants (If Necessary)
- Stents, pacemakers, prosthetics, and other necessary medical implants are included
7. Accommodation and Food During Hospitalisation
- Covers patient accommodation and meals during the hospital stay
8. Treatment of Complications
- Includes additional surgeries, extended stays, and intensive care if complications arise
9. Post-Hospitalisation Follow-Up (up to 15 Days)
- Follow-up treatment and medicines for 15 days post-discharge are covered
Eligibility Criteria for Ayushman Bharat PMJAY
To be eligible, your name should appear in the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 database.
In Rural Areas:
- Families living in kaccha (temporary) houses
- No adult family member aged between 16 and 59
- Belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) or Scheduled Tribes (ST)
In Urban Areas:
- Individuals working in low-income occupations such as:
- Street vendors
- Domestic workers
- Construction workers
- Rickshaw pullers, etc.
You can verify your eligibility through the official website or by visiting a PMJAY kiosk.
Read also: Long-term investment in affordable housing projects can support your family's future along with access to quality healthcare.
Conclusion
Ayushman Bharat PMJAY is a landmark initiative in healthcare, designed to protect the vulnerable population from the rising costs of medical treatment. With cashless services, a broad network of empaneled hospitals, and no premium requirement, the scheme is truly a game-changer.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, take the necessary steps to apply and secure your family's healthcare. It’s a simple process, and the benefits are life-changing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1: Is there any fee to apply for the Ayushman Bharat scheme?
, the application and enrollment process is completely free of cost.
2: Can I apply online for Ayushman Bharat PMJAY?
While eligibility can be checked online, actual enrollment and e-card issuance require physical verification at a PMJAY kiosk.
3: What if my name is not on the SECC 2011 list?
Unfortunately, only families listed in the SECC 2011 database are eligible. However, you may still access healthcare through state-specific health schemes if available.
4: Where can I use my Ayushman Bharat e-card?
You can use the e-card at any empaneled public or private hospital under the PMJAY scheme across the country.
5: Can I add new family members later?
Currently, the scheme is based on the existing SECC 2011 data, and new additions are not permitted unless covered under updates by local authorities.