Swasth Bharat Yojana Blog

Introduction to Health Benefits Provided by the Government

In its mission to achieve Universal Health Coverage, the Government of India has implemented groundbreaking healthcare initiatives under the Swasth Bharat Yojana (Healthy India Initiative). These revolutionary schemes aim to transform India's healthcare landscape by making quality medical services accessible and affordable for all citizens, with special focus on marginalized communities.

The flagship Ayushman Bharat program covers over 100 million vulnerable families, providing health insurance up to ₹5 lakh per family annually. This initiative works alongside numerous state-specific programs and national health missions to create a comprehensive safety net for India's 1.4 billion people.

Beyond financial protection, these programs emphasize preventive healthcare through screening initiatives, immunization drives, and wellness campaigns. From rural villages to urban centers, the government is building infrastructure including over 150,000 Health and Wellness Centers to deliver primary care services within easy reach of all citizens.

This blog serves as your comprehensive guide to navigating India's healthcare benefits ecosystem. We provide detailed, up-to-date information about eligibility criteria, application processes, and lesser-known health services that can significantly improve your wellbeing. Whether you're seeking information about insurance coverage, cancer treatment support, or digital health solutions, our resources will help you maximize the benefits of these transformative government schemes.

How to Apply for Ayushman Bharat Card Online (2025)

Healthcare

Ayushman Bharat Yojana provides health coverage of up to ₹5 lakhs per family per year. In 2025, applying for the Ayushman Bharat card has become even easier with upgraded online portals and digital health infrastructure. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you apply online from the comfort of your home.

What is the Ayushman Bharat Scheme?

The Ayushman Bharat Scheme aims to provide accessible and affordable healthcare to the underprivileged sections of society. It consists of two main components:

  1. Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs): Transforming existing primary health centers to provide comprehensive primary healthcare (CPHC).
  2. Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY): World's largest health assurance scheme covering ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization.

Eligibility Criteria (2025 Updated List)

To be eligible for the Ayushman Bharat card, applicants must meet specific criteria, including income thresholds and family size. Beneficiaries are identified from the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 database.

Documents Required

Step-by-Step Process to Apply Online

  1. Visit the official Ayushman Bharat website.
  2. Click on the 'Apply Now' button.
  3. Fill in the required details.
  4. Upload the necessary documents.
  5. Submit your application.

How to Check Your Application Status

You can check your application status on the official website by entering your application number.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Helpline Numbers & Support

For assistance, you can contact the Ayushman Bharat helpline at 14555 or 1800 111 565.

Top 10 Free Health Services You Didn't Know Govt Provides

Medical Services

While schemes like Ayushman Bharat are widely known, the Indian government provides many other health services — absolutely free of cost — that often go unnoticed. Whether you're in a metro or rural village, some of these could benefit you or your family immensely.

List of Free Services:

  1. Jan Aushadhi Kendras – Affordable Generic Medicines
  2. Free Dialysis under PM National Dialysis Program
  3. Free Cataract Surgeries in Govt Hospitals
  4. Free Ambulance Services – 108 & 102
  5. Free Childbirth under Janani Suraksha Yojana
  6. Free Sanitary Napkins via Menstrual Hygiene Scheme
  7. TB Treatment under Nikshay Poshan Yojana
  8. Immunization under Mission Indradhanush
  9. Free Mental Health Counselling via Tele-MANAS
  10. Free Health Check-ups under Health & Wellness Centres

Best Government Schemes for Cancer Treatment in India

Cancer Treatment

Cancer treatment can be expensive, but several Indian government schemes aim to reduce the financial burden. If detected early and treated under these schemes, many patients can access quality care without the worry of cost.

Key Schemes:

What is ABHA Health ID & Why You Should Create It

Digital Health

The ABHA Health ID is your gateway to India's Digital Health Ecosystem. With this ID, you can store your medical records, access treatment across different hospitals, and control who can see your health data.

Contents:

Compare: Ayushman Bharat vs CMCHIS – Which One is Better?

Health Insurance

If you're in Tamil Nadu, you may have heard of both Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) and Chief Minister's Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme (CMCHIS). While both offer free health insurance, their benefits, coverage, and eligibility differ. Let’s compare them.

Comparison Table:

Feature Ayushman Bharat CMCHIS
Coverage ₹5 Lakhs/family ₹5 Lakhs/family
Eligibility SECC Beneficiaries Income < ₹1.2 Lakh/year
Hospitals Empanelled Govt & Pvt Primarily TN Hospitals
Card Required Yes (PM-JAY Card) Yes (CMCHIS Card)
Specialty Treatments Yes Yes, Some State-Specific
Portability Pan-India Tamil Nadu only

Conclusion:

Choose Ayushman Bharat for pan-India coverage; opt for CMCHIS if you want quick local access in Tamil Nadu.

Preventive Healthcare Initiatives Under Swasth Bharat

Preventive Healthcare

Screening Programs

Government provides free screening for:

Immunization Programs

Key immunization initiatives:

Wellness Activities

Community-based programs: