The Ayushman Card, officially known as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) Card, is one of India’s largest government-backed health insurance schemes. Launched under Ayushman Bharat, it aims to provide free medical treatment to economically weaker families across the country.
In 2025, millions of Indians continue to benefit from this scheme, which offers cashless hospitalization coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year at empaneled public and private hospitals. Let’s explore the eligibility, benefits, and simple steps to apply online for your Ayushman Card.
What Is Ayushman Card (PMJAY)?
The Ayushman Bharat Health Card enables beneficiaries to access quality healthcare services without worrying about hospital bills. Under the PMJAY scheme, the government covers the cost of hospitalization, surgery, and medical procedures — ensuring that every eligible citizen receives affordable healthcare.
Key Highlights:
- Health insurance coverage up to ₹5 lakh per family per year
- Valid across 24,000+ empaneled hospitals in India
- 100% cashless and paperless treatment
- Covers pre- and post-hospitalization expenses
- No restriction on family size, age, or gender
- Extended benefit of ₹10 lakh (₹5 lakh + ₹5 lakh top-up) for senior citizens above 70 years in some states
Ayushman Card Benefits in 2025
The scheme offers comprehensive healthcare benefits that make it a true “health protector” for Indian families.
- Free Treatment at Empaneled Hospitals
Beneficiaries can avail cashless treatment at both government and private hospitals registered under PMJAY.
- Coverage for 1,500+ Medical Procedures
The Ayushman Bharat Card covers a wide range of medical procedures including surgeries, diagnostics, and follow-up care.
- Pre and Post-Hospitalization Expenses
Expenses related to medicines, tests, and consultations before and after hospitalization are fully covered.
- Nationwide Portability
The card can be used anywhere in India, making it ideal for migrant workers and families living in different states.
- No Age or Family Limit
There’s no restriction on the number of family members or their age — the entire family is covered under a single plan.
yushman Card Eligibility Criteria
Not every citizen is automatically eligible. The eligibility is determined using the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 data.
Rural Area Eligibility:
- Families with no adult male member aged 16–59 years
- Households living in one-room kutcha houses
- Landless families dependent on manual labour
- SC/ST households
- Families without proper shelter
Urban Area Eligibility:
- Street vendors, rickshaw pullers, domestic workers, plumbers, painters, and other low-income workers
- Rag pickers and sanitation workers
- Security guards, drivers, and home-based artisans
Documents Required for Ayushman Card Registration
To apply for the Ayushman Bharat Card, you’ll need the following documents:
- Aadhaar Card (mandatory)
- Ration Card or SECC reference number
- Mobile number (linked with Aadhaar)
- Income certificate (if required)
- Passport-size photograph
How to Apply Online for Ayushman Card in 2025
Follow these simple steps to apply and download your Ayushman Bharat Card online:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to the PMJAY official portal – https://pmjay.gov.in
Step 2: Check Your Eligibility
Click on “Am I Eligible?” and enter your mobile number or ration card details to verify if your family is covered under the PMJAY scheme.
Step 3: Complete e-KYC Verification
Use your Aadhaar number to complete the electronic KYC (e-KYC) verification and validate your identity.
Step 4: Apply and Download Ayushman Card
Once verified, your Ayushman Card will be generated. You can download the Ayushman Bharat e-Card from the PMJAY portal or collect it from the nearest Common Service Centre (CSC).
Ayushman Card Helpline & Support
- Official Website: www.pmjay.gov.in
- Helpline Number: 14555 / 1800-111-565
- Email Support: pmjay@nic.in