Ayushman Bharat Card 2025: Government Announces Major Expansion, Millions to Benefit
In a significant policy move, the Government of India has expanded the Ayushman Bharat Card beneficiary list under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) for 2025. The new guidelines aim to bring more low-income families, migrant workers, gig-economy earners, and senior citizens under the umbrella of cashless medical coverage worth ₹5 lakh per family.
Officials from the Ministry of Health confirmed that the expansion comes after a nationwide review revealing that thousands of eligible households were still unable to access PMJAY benefits due to outdated socio-economic data and verification delays.
Eligibility Norms Updated
Under the revised criteria, the following groups will now be automatically eligible for the Ayushman Bharat Card:
- Families identified in the updated SECC database
- Unorganized and gig workers registered on e-Shram
- Senior citizens above 70 years without pension support
- Migrant workers temporarily residing outside their home state
The government says the expansion is expected to include 1.8 crore new beneficiaries by the end of 2025.
New Digital Verification Process
To speed up card approval, the National Health Authority (NHA) has introduced a fresh “Fast-Track e-KYC” system. This allows users to verify identity using Aadhaar OTP, eliminating manual checks.
Officials claim that the new system will generate a digital Ayushman Bharat Golden Card within minutes, making hospital check-ins faster and paperwork-free.
State Governments Welcome the Move
Several state health departments have already begun district-level awareness drives.
States like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu have reported a spike in daily registrations.
Health experts say the reform will significantly improve access to quality treatment, especially for chronic illnesses such as kidney ailments, heart diseases, diabetes complications, and cancer care.
How to Apply for Ayushman Bharat Card 2025
Residents can check eligibility and download their card through:
- PMJAY official portal
- Ayushman App
- Common Service Centres
- Local Ayushman Mitra desk in empanelled hospitals
Applicants need an Aadhaar card, ration card, and mobile number for verification.
Government Targets 2025 Universal Coverage
Union Health Ministry officials say the long-term goal is to transition towards “Universal Healthcare for All,” ensuring financial protection for every vulnerable household.
With more empanelled hospitals and digital onboarding tools being added, the Ayushman Bharat Card remains India’s largest government health insurance scheme.
