Introduction to the Ayushman Bharat Card
The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) is a revolutionary health insurance scheme by the Government of India. Its primary goal is to provide a health cover of ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization to over 12 crore poor and vulnerable families. The Ayushman Card, also known as the PMJAY Golden Card, is the key that unlocks these benefits, allowing for completely cashless treatment at any empanelled hospital in India. This article provides a detailed, step-by-step guide on how you can check your eligibility and apply for this life-saving card online in 2025.
Who is Eligible for an Ayushman Card?
Eligibility for the Ayushman Bharat scheme is not open for general registration. The beneficiaries have been identified based on specific deprivation and occupational criteria from the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 for rural and urban areas. However, many states have expanded this list. The primary eligibility groups are:
- SECC 2011 Beneficiaries: Families who are listed in the SECC 2011 database under specific categories (like households with no adult male member, landless households, etc.).
- Ration Card Holders (in specific states): States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Assam have expanded the scheme to include all or specific types of ration card holders (e.g., Antyodaya cards).
- Other State-Specific Categories: Many states have their own integrated schemes (like HIMCARE in Himachal, MJPJAY in Maharashtra) that cover other categories like registered construction workers, small traders, etc.
The first step is always to check if your name is on the official list, which can be done easily online.
Documents Required for Ayushman Card Application
The process has been made very simple and requires minimal documentation. Before you start the online application, make sure you have the following ready:
- Aadhaar Card: This is mandatory for e-KYC verification.
- Mobile Number Linked to Aadhaar: You will receive an OTP on this number for authentication.
- Ration Card or PMJAY Letter: A valid Ration Card (especially for state-expanded schemes) or the PMJAY letter sent to eligible families can be used to search for your name.
- Proof of Residence (if needed): In some state schemes, you might need a domicile certificate.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Online
Applying for your Ayushman Card online is a straightforward process through the official NHA beneficiary portal. Follow these steps carefully:
- Step 1: Visit the Official Beneficiary Portal
Open your web browser on your mobile or computer and go to the official PMJAY beneficiary portal: beneficiary.nha.gov.in.
- Step 2: Log In with Your Mobile Number
On the homepage, select the **'Beneficiary'** option. Enter your 10-digit mobile number and click 'Verify'. You will receive an OTP (One-Time Password) on your number. Enter the OTP and the captcha code, then click 'Login'.
- Step 3: Search for Your Family's Name
After logging in, you will be taken to a dashboard. Here, you need to select your **State**, **Scheme** (select PMJAY), and **District**. Then, under 'Search By', you can choose Family ID (Ration Card Number), Aadhaar Number, or Name. Enter the details and click the 'Search' icon.
- Step 4: Identify Your Family and Initiate e-KYC
If your family is eligible, the names of all members will be displayed. Find your name and look at the 'e-KYC Status' column. If it's 'Unidentified' or 'Not Generated', click on the action icon next to it to start the e-KYC process.
- Step 5: Aadhaar OTP Authentication
A new window will open for Aadhaar verification. Verify your Aadhaar number and choose 'Aadhaar OTP' as the authentication mode. You will receive an OTP on the mobile number linked to your Aadhaar. Enter it to proceed.
- Step 6: Capture Photograph and Submit
After OTP verification, your details from Aadhaar (name, photo, DOB) will be displayed. The system will then ask you to capture a live photograph using your device's camera. Ensure you are in a well-lit area. Match your details, provide any additional information like your current mobile number, and submit the form.
- Step 7: Download Your Ayushman Card
Once the e-KYC is successfully submitted, your status will show as 'Verified', and your card will be approved instantly. You will see a 'Download Card' button next to your name. Click on it to save your Ayushman Card as a PDF on your device.
What to Do After Downloading the Card?
Once you have downloaded your Ayushman Card, it is recommended to get it printed on a PVC card for durability. This card is valid at any of the thousands of empanelled government and private hospitals across India. When you need medical treatment, simply present this card at the hospital's Ayushman Mitra desk to start your cashless treatment process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What if I don't have a smartphone or internet to apply online?
If you cannot apply online, you can visit the nearest empanelled hospital or a Common Service Centre (CSC). An 'Ayushman Mitra' at these locations will assist you with the entire process free of cost.
Q. My Aadhaar is not linked to my mobile number. Can I still do e-KYC?
Yes. The portal also offers other e-KYC options like fingerprint scanning and iris scanning. You can use these methods at a CSC or an empanelled hospital's kiosk.
Q. The portal shows my family members, but my name is missing. What should I do?
If your name is missing from the family details, you will need to use the 'Add Member' feature on the portal or visit a kiosk. You will need to provide a government-issued document (like a birth certificate or marriage certificate) to prove your relationship with the head of the family.