The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) is a flagship scheme of the Indian government, aiming to provide free healthcare access to the country's economically weaker sections. Launched on September 23, 2018, this ambitious health insurance scheme covers approximately 50 crore citizens, offering financial protection for secondary and tertiary healthcare needs. A key aspect of availing the benefits under Ayushman Bharat is determining one's eligibility, which can be done conveniently online.

Checking Eligibility Online: A Step-by-Step Guide

The online method is a straightforward process, allowing individuals to quickly ascertain their eligibility for the scheme. Here's a detailed guide:

1. Visit the Official PMJAY Website: Start by navigating to the official website of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, which is www.pmjay.gov.in.
2. Locate the 'Am I Eligible' Tab: On the homepage, find and click on the 'Am I Eligible' tab, usually located in the top right-hand corner of the screen.
3. Login as Beneficiary: You will be redirected to the Beneficiary NHA portal. On the new page, choose to log in as 'Beneficiary'.
4. Enter Details and Verify: Enter the captcha code and your mobile number in the required fields and click on the 'Verify' button.
5. OTP Verification: Type in the One-Time Password (OTP) you receive on your mobile number and click the 'Login' button.
6. Provide Required Information: Select the relevant options under each menu and provide the requested details, such as your state and district. You can also search by your Aadhaar number.
7. Check Your Status: If you are eligible, the website will display your details, confirming your eligibility for health insurance coverage under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana. The names of all family members and their Ayushman card status will also be listed. If your card is marked as "Not-Generated", you can click "Apply Now" and follow the instructions to complete the application, which includes Aadhaar authentication via OTP.

Offline Eligibility Check

If you are unable to check your eligibility online, the offline method is also available. By visiting the nearest Common Service Centre (CSC) or a PMJAY-empanelled hospital with the necessary documents, the staff will assist in confirming if you qualify for the scheme. If eligible, you can also obtain your Ayushman Bharat card from the centre. Alternatively, you can call the PMJAY toll-free helpline number 14555 for assistance.

Documents Required

For offline verification, keep the following documents ready:

• Aadhaar card for identification.
• Ration card.
• Income certificate.
• Utility bills/Voter ID/Passport for residential proof.
• PM/CM entitlement letter (if applicable).
• Caste certificate (if applicable).
• Bank account documents.

Eligibility Criteria

The Ayushman Bharat scheme primarily targets households listed under the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 database, as well as those belonging to economically weaker sections, SC/ST categories, and other specified vulnerable groups. There is no prescribed income limit for the Ayushman card.

Families living in rural areas must meet certain criteria, such as living in a hut with a single room and lacking proper walls or a roof, having no adult member aged 16 to 59 years, or being a landless family whose primary income source is manual labor.

Benefits and Recent Updates

The Ayushman Bharat Yojana provides a health insurance cover of Rs. 5 lakh per family per year. In a recent update, all senior citizens above 70 years of age are now eligible for a separate health coverage of up to Rs. 5 lakh per year, regardless of their socio-economic background. This additional coverage, provided through the Ayushman Vay Vandana card, does not need to be shared with other family members below the age of 70.

Hospitalisation Process

To avail of cashless treatment under the scheme:

1. Locate empanelled hospitals in your area through the PMJAY website or a CSC.
2. Visit the hospital and present your Ayushman card and identification documents at the reception.
3. The hospital will verify your details and initiate the admission process, providing cashless treatment for covered conditions and procedures.

The Ayushman Bharat Yojana represents a significant step towards providing accessible and affordable healthcare to millions of Indians. By understanding the eligibility criteria and utilizing the simple online or offline verification processes, individuals can easily determine their eligibility and avail of the scheme's numerous benefits.