Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY)
PM-JAY gives eligible families free, cashless hospital treatment of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year at empanelled government and private hospitals. Every citizen aged 70 or above is covered regardless of income.
Last updated 31 October 2026Not yet verified against the latest official notification
Who can apply
Poor and vulnerable families identified under the scheme, and all senior citizens aged 70 years and above.
- Your family is listed as eligible under the scheme’s deprivation and occupation criteria (check on the beneficiary portal).
- OR you are aged 70 or above. Income does not matter for this group; you can get an Ayushman Vay Vandana card.
Benefits
- Up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary hospital care.
- Cashless and paperless treatment at empanelled hospitals.
- Senior citizens aged 70+ in families already covered get an additional top-up of up to ₹5 lakh a year for themselves.
Documents you will need
- Aadhaar card (used for e-KYC and, for 70+, as proof of age)
- Ration card or other family ID, if asked
The exact list can vary by state and office. Carry originals and photocopies.
How to apply
- Check your eligibility on the official beneficiary portal or the Ayushman app.
- Complete e-KYC and download your Ayushman card.
- You can also get help at an empanelled hospital (Ayushman Mitra desk) or a Common Service Centre.
- Show your Ayushman card at an empanelled hospital for cashless treatment.
When to apply: No application window. You can check eligibility and get your card at any time.
National helpline: 14555
Common mistakes to avoid
- Going to a hospital that is not empanelled under PM-JAY.
- Paying agents to "make" an Ayushman card. Getting the card is free.
Frequently asked questions
My parents are over 70 but not in the PM-JAY list. Can they get cover?
Yes. Since October 2024 every citizen aged 70 or above is eligible regardless of income. Apply for the Ayushman Vay Vandana card through the official app or portal.
Does PM-JAY cover outpatient (OPD) visits?
PM-JAY mainly covers hospitalisation. Check the official website for the list of covered procedures.
Official links and sources
- PM-JAY official website (pmjay.gov.in)
- Check eligibility / get Ayushman card (beneficiary.nha.gov.in)
to open the official application portal from here. Your account also lets you save schemes and results.
This page is a plain-language summary written by Community AI. The official guidelines on the portals above are the final word. Read how we research and update pages in our editorial policy.
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