INVC NEWS
New Delhi – The Ayushman Bharat Yojana, launched by the Government of India, is a healthcare initiative that provides free medical treatment to eligible individuals. This scheme is designed to offer financial protection to vulnerable sections of society by covering medical expenses up to ₹5 lakh per family per year. However, not everyone qualifies for this scheme, and it’s essential to understand the eligibility criteria clearly.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore who can apply for an Ayushman card and who cannot. We’ll also walk you through the process of obtaining this card and the documentation required. Whether you’re from an urban or rural area, it’s important to determine your eligibility before applying.
Who Cannot Get an Ayushman Card?
Certain individuals and families are not eligible for the Ayushman Bharat Yojana. The government has outlined specific criteria that disqualify certain groups from receiving the benefits. Below is a detailed breakdown of who cannot apply for an Ayushman card:
1. Individuals Working in the Organized Sector
If you are employed in the organized sector, where your employer deducts Provident Fund (PF), you are not eligible for the Ayushman Bharat Yojana. These individuals often have employee health insurance schemes, which are considered sufficient for healthcare needs.
2. People Covered Under ESIC
The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) provides healthcare coverage for employees working in certain sectors. If you are covered by ESIC, you will not qualify for the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
3. Taxpayers
Any individual or family that pays income tax is excluded from this scheme. The Ayushman Bharat Yojana is designed for people who fall under the economically weaker sections of society and thus, tax-paying individuals are not considered eligible.
4. Owners of a Pucca House
Families or individuals who already own a pucca (permanent) house are not eligible for this scheme. The rationale is that homeownership in certain cases implies a level of financial stability that disqualifies them from the benefits of this scheme.
5. Vehicle Owners
Owning a four-wheeler disqualifies you from applying for an Ayushman card. This is because vehicle ownership is often seen as an indicator of financial well-being, suggesting that individuals may not need additional government support for healthcare.
6. Government Employees
Government employees and their families are not eligible for the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, as they are typically covered under various government-run health schemes.
Who Can Get an Ayushman Card?
Now that we’ve established who cannot apply, let’s take a look at the groups who can get an Ayushman card. This section covers individuals who are eligible for the scheme and can take advantage of its extensive healthcare benefits.
1. Unorganized Sector Workers
If you are employed in the unorganized sector, such as daily wage laborers or domestic workers, you may qualify for an Ayushman card. The scheme is designed to cover those who lack access to formal health insurance through their employers.
2. Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST)
Individuals from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) are eligible for the scheme. These communities often face socioeconomic challenges, making them prime candidates for healthcare assistance under the Ayushman Bharat Yojana.
3. Families with Disabled Members
Families with a disabled member may qualify for the Ayushman card, as this is considered an added vulnerability that requires financial support. Disability often results in increased medical expenses, making these families eligible for the benefits.
4. Rural Families
If you live in a rural area, your eligibility increases significantly. The government prioritizes rural households, especially those with kutcha (temporary) houses, as these are generally considered economically weaker sections.
5. Nomadic Tribes and Destitutes
Nomadic tribes, homeless individuals, and destitutes are also eligible for the scheme. These individuals often lack stable employment or permanent housing and are thus covered under the Ayushman Bharat Yojana.
6. Urban Poor and Manual Laborers
Urban poor, particularly those who work as street vendors, rickshaw pullers, and manual laborers, can apply for an Ayushman card. These groups often earn below the poverty line and lack access to healthcare services, making them eligible for the scheme.
How to Apply for an Ayushman Card?
If you are eligible, you can follow these simple steps to apply for an Ayushman card:
Step 1: Visit Your Nearest CSC (Common Service Centre)
To apply for an Ayushman card, the first step is to visit your nearest Common Service Centre (CSC). These centers are established across India to assist individuals in applying for various government schemes, including Ayushman Bharat.
Step 2: Document Verification
At the CSC, you will need to provide relevant documents to verify your eligibility. Key documents include:
- Aadhar card for identity verification
- Proof of residence
- Income certificate
- If applicable, documents proving your membership in SC/ST, disability, or rural background
The CSC officer will assist you in verifying these documents and confirming your eligibility for the Ayushman Bharat Yojana.
Step 3: Eligibility Check
Once your documents are submitted, the CSC officer will check your eligibility status in the Ayushman Bharat Yojana database. If you are found eligible, you can proceed to the next step.
Step 4: Application Submission
After verification, your application will be submitted. You will receive a reference number for future tracking. This process takes a few days, after which your Ayushman card will be processed and issued.
Step 5: Card Issuance
Once all the steps are complete, your Ayushman card will be issued. You will either receive it via post or be asked to collect it from the nearest health facility.
Conclusion
The Ayushman Bharat Yojana is an essential initiative for India’s economically weaker sections, offering a safety net for healthcare costs. However, understanding the eligibility criteria is crucial before applying for the Ayushman card. Those working in the organized sector, paying taxes, or owning permanent assets are generally not eligible. On the other hand, rural workers, disabled individuals, and people from SC/ST communities can benefit from this scheme.
If you meet the criteria, we encourage you to apply for the Ayushman card by visiting your nearest Common Service Centre. The process is straightforward, and the benefits can significantly alleviate the financial burden of healthcare.
By following this guide, you can better understand whether you are eligible for the Ayushman Bharat Yojana and how to go about applying for it.
