Ayushman Bharat Scheme: Benefits, Impact & Key Facts for Competitive Exams

Why is Ayushman Bharat Important for Competitive Exams?
Government job aspirants (UPSC, SSC, PSC, KAS, etc.) must be well-versed in key welfare schemes like Ayushman Bharat because:
It is frequently asked in Prelims, Mains, and Interview stages.
Understanding its objectives, implementation, and impact helps in essay writing and answer structuring.
Questions on healthcare policies, poverty alleviation, and government schemes often appear in exams.


Ayushman Bharat Scheme: Key Highlights
1. What is Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY?
A Central Government-funded health insurance scheme for economically vulnerable families.
Provides cashless treatment up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for serious illnesses.
Covers secondary and tertiary healthcare at government and empanelled private hospitals.


2. Who is Eligible?
10.74 crore families (approx. 50 crore beneficiaries) as per Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 data.
No restrictions on family size, age, or gender.
Automatic inclusion for senior citizens (70+ years) and SC/ST households.


3. How Does It Work?
Beneficiaries receive an e-card (Golden Card) for cashless hospital admissions.
Covers 1,574 medical procedures including surgeries, diagnostics, and medications.
Paperless & portable – Can be used anywhere in India.


4. Impact in Prayagraj Division (Uttar Pradesh)
Over 50.05 lakh beneficiaries covered across Prayagraj, Fatehpur, Kaushambi, and Pratapgarh.
38.51 lakh Golden Cards issued, enabling cashless treatment.
2.94 lakh patients treated (1.36 lakh in govt. hospitals, 1.58 lakh in private hospitals).
₹206.50 crore reimbursed to private hospitals under the scheme.


5. Expansion & Future Goals
Focus on enrolling all senior citizens (70+ years).
Increasing awareness in rural areas for wider reach.
Digital integration for smoother claim processing.


Questions & Answers for Competitive Exams
Q1. What is the annual coverage limit under Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY?
✅ Answer: ₹5 lakh per family per year.
Q2. Which government body implements the Ayushman Bharat Scheme?
✅ Answer: National Health Authority (NHA).
Q3. How many medical procedures are covered under AB PM-JAY?
✅ Answer: 1,574 procedures including surgeries, diagnostics, and treatments.
Q4. Which document determines eligibility for Ayushman Bharat?
✅ Answer: Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 data.
Q5. What is the Golden Card in Ayushman Bharat?
✅ Answer: An e-card issued to beneficiaries for cashless hospital treatment.


The Ayushman Bharat Scheme is a revolutionary step towards universal healthcare in India. For exam aspirants, mastering its features, eligibility, and impact is crucial for scoring well in GS and current affairs sections. Stay updated with such schemes to boost your preparation!
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