In India, access to quality healthcare can be a significant hurdle, especially for low-income families. The Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), also known as the Ayushman Bharat scheme, aims to bridge this gap by providing financial assistance for medical care to eligible beneficiaries. This translates to receiving free treatment for a wide range of illnesses at empaneled hospitals across the country.
This article will guide you through the process of applying for and downloading your Ayushman Card online.
Am I Eligible for an Ayushman Card?
Before applying, it’s crucial to check your eligibility for the scheme. The PMJAY targets economically disadvantaged families and individuals identified through the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) data. Here’s a quick way to find out:
- Visit the official PMJAY website: https://bis.pmjay.gov.in/BIS/selfprintCard
- Click on the “Am I Eligible” option on the top menu.
- Enter your mobile number linked to your Aadhaar card.
If your details are in the SECC database and you belong to an eligible household, you will receive a confirmation message.
Applying for Your Ayushman Card Online
Currently, applying for a new Ayushman Card directly online isn’t available. However, you can check your eligibility and initiate the process through CSC centers (Common Service Centers) across India. Here’s what you need to do:
- Locate your nearest CSC center. You can find them on the CSC website: https://digitalseva.csc.gov.in/
- Visit the CSC with the required documents, which typically include:
- Aadhaar card for all family members
- Ration card (if available)
- Mobile number linked to Aadhaar
- Income certificate (if available)
- The CSC operator will verify your details and submit your application electronically.
- Once approved, you can collect your physical Ayushman Card from the CSC within a few days.
Downloading Your Existing Ayushman Card (e-Card)
If you’ve already received your physical Ayushman Card, you can download a digital copy (e-Card) for easy access. Here’s how:
- Visit the Ayushman Bharat PMJAY beneficiary portal: https://beneficiary.nha.gov.in/
- In the login section, enter your registered mobile number and the OTP received.
- Once logged in, navigate to the “Download E-Card” section. You might find it on the homepage or under the “Beneficiary Corner.”
- Enter your Aadhaar number, mobile number, or any other details requested for verification.
- Download the e-Card and save it securely on your phone or print a copy for reference.
Key Points to Remember
- Keep your Aadhaar card linked to your mobile number for seamless verification.
- The Ayushman Card covers up to Rs. 5 lakh (US$6,300 approx.) for medical treatment in empaneled hospitals.
- It’s advisable to carry both your physical and e-Card whenever you visit an empaneled hospital for treatment under the PMJAY scheme.
- The PMJAY website offers informative videos explaining the application process and the benefits of the scheme in Hindi.
Additional Resources
- For any queries or assistance, you can contact the Ayushman Bharat PMJAY helpline at 14555 or visit their website for frequently asked questions (FAQs).
By obtaining your Ayushman Card, you’re taking a crucial step towards securing your and your family’s access to quality healthcare services in India. Remember, early application ensures you can reap the benefits of this government initiative when needed.
In conclusion, the Ayushman Bharat PMJAY scheme offers a vital safety net for underprivileged families in India. By applying for and utilizing your Ayushman Card, you can receive free medical treatment for a multitude of illnesses at empaneled hospitals across the country. The online process for checking eligibility and downloading your e-Card is convenient and user-friendly. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of this program and safeguard the health of yourself and your loved ones.
