The Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) has provided free treatment to over 8.5 crore beneficiaries, covering healthcare costs of more than ₹1.2 lakh crore since its launch in 2018. This initiative, the world’s largest health protection scheme, offers ₹5 lakh annual medical coverage to economically weaker families.
Top Beneficiary States
As of January 29, 2025, Tamil Nadu has the highest number of beneficiaries (90.49 lakh), followed by:
- Karnataka – 66.04 lakh
- Rajasthan – 57.41 lakh
- Kerala – 54.64 lakh
- Andhra Pradesh – 49.67 lakh
- Gujarat – 45.46 lakh
- Lakshadweep has the lowest beneficiaries (780).
Key Features of the Scheme
- No cap on family size or age
- Covers hospitalization, medicines, diagnostics, doctor’s fees, ICU charges
- 15-day post-hospitalization care included
- 36.54 crore Ayushman Cards issued so far
- 31,077 hospitals (government and private) providing treatment under the scheme
Special Benefits for Senior Citizens
To enhance healthcare access for the elderly, PM Narendra Modi launched the Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana on October 29, offering ₹5 lakh annual coverage exclusively for senior citizens.
This initiative is a significant step toward strengthening India’s public healthcare system, ensuring financial relief for millions.