Who Is Not Eligible for the Ayushman Card? Check If You Are on the List Before Applying
Who Is Not Eligible for the Ayushman Card? Check If You Are on the List Before Applying
Free treatment up to ₹5 lakh sounds life-changing but not everyone qualifies for an Ayushman card. Here’s what you need to know before you apply.
The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) is one of India’s largest health initiatives, providing free hospital care up to ₹5 lakh per family, per year. It’s a lifeline for many, especially for those who can’t afford regular health insurance. But the government has outlined clear eligibility criteria, and if you fall into any of the categories below, you will not be issued an Ayushman card.
Here’s a quick guide to check whether you or someone you know is excluded from this scheme.
Who Is Not Eligible for an Ayushman Card?
- Income Tax Payers
If you or any family member files income tax, you are considered financially capable and not eligible for the Ayushman scheme. - Government Employees
Anyone employed in central or state government jobs whether on a permanent or contractual basis, is excluded from receiving an Ayushman card. - EPF Account Holders
If you are contributing to the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF), you are seen as part of the formal employment sector and thus not eligible. - Vehicle Owners
- If your family owns a four-wheeler (car, jeep, etc.) or a tractor, this reflects financial stability and excludes you from the scheme.
- House and Property Owners
- Families that own a permanent (pucca) house may not qualify under the economically weaker section required for eligibility.
- Business Owners with GST or Company Registration
- If you run a business registered under GST, or if a company is registered in your name, you’re considered economically self-sufficient and not eligible.
- Existing Government Scheme Beneficiaries
- Individuals who already benefit from other central health schemes such as:
- Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS)
- Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS)
- Ayushman CAPF scheme (for armed forces)
must choose between these or Ayushman Bharat. You cannot receive benefits from both.
- Individuals who already benefit from other central health schemes such as:
What is the Ayushman Card for?
- Provides up to ₹5 lakh per family per year
- Covers both government and empanelled private hospitals
- Focuses on secondary and tertiary hospitalisation
- Designed to serve rural, low-income, and vulnerable populations
Why Eligibility Matters
Ayushman Bharat is targeted, it’s meant to reach people who genuinely cannot afford health insurance. By limiting eligibility to those in economic need, the scheme ensures public funds are used where they matter most.
What To Do If You’re Ineligible
If you find yourself ineligible but still need health insurance:
- Explore private insurance providers with low premium options.
- Check if you’re covered under any other state-level schemes.
- Senior citizens may have access to specialised plans by their respective departments or professional backgrounds.
