A Beginner's Guide to Ayushman Card Download and Usage

Understanding the Purpose and Importance of the Ayushman Card

The Ayushman Card is more than just an identification document—it serves as a passport to a wide range of medical services. Introduced under the PMJAY scheme, this card empowers low-income families to receive medical care in both public and empaneled private hospitals. The objective is to ensure that no individual is denied essential health services due to financial constraints.

It covers not only hospitalization but also pre- and post-hospitalization expenses, diagnostic tests, and critical surgeries. The scheme is especially beneficial for people living below the poverty line who often avoid or delay treatment due to costs. By removing the financial barriers, the Ayushman Card plays a transformative role in promoting health equity across India.

Eligibility Criteria and Who Can Apply

Eligibility for the Ayushman Card is determined based on data from the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011. Individuals who belong to economically disadvantaged groups such as landless laborers, scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and families without a male adult member aged 16 to 59 are typically included.

There is no enrollment fee or premium, making it completely free for eligible families. However, to access the benefits, the individual must have their information validated through authorized government platforms and be listed as a beneficiary.

How to Download the Ayushman Card from the Official PMJAY Portal

The most common and reliable method to download the Ayushman Card is through the official PMJAY portal at https://beneficiary.nha.gov.in. Begin by selecting the "Beneficiary" option and entering your mobile number. You will then need to verify this number through an OTP (One Time Password) sent to your phone.

After verification, choose your state and district and select the appropriate scheme, which in this case is PMJAY. To confirm your eligibility, you can search using your Family ID, Aadhaar number, or PMJAY ID. If you are listed as an approved beneficiary, your card will appear with a download option. Complete another OTP verification and the Ayushman Card can be downloaded in PDF format for use.

Using the BIS Portal to Download the Card

An alternative method is through the BIS (Beneficiary Identification System) portal at https://bis.pmjay.gov.in. After accessing the website, select the “Download Ayushman Card” option and input your mobile number that is registered under your PMJAY account. After entering the captcha correctly, validate your details.

Next, authenticate your identity by selecting your state, entering your Aadhaar number, and verifying with another OTP. Once the system confirms your eligibility, your Ayushman Card will be available for download. This method is especially helpful for users who may face issues on the main PMJAY portal or need an alternative option for card access.

Accessing the Ayushman Card through DigiLocker

For those who prefer storing their documents digitally, DigiLocker offers another easy way to access the Ayushman Card. Start by logging into your DigiLocker account or registering if you’re a first-time user. Use the search tool within the platform to look up the “Ayushman Bharat” service.

Select the PMJAY scheme from the results and input your PMJAY ID and the state where you applied. Once you click on “Get Document,” your Ayushman Card will be fetched and stored in your DigiLocker. This ensures that your card is always accessible, even if you lose a physical copy or need it urgently while traveling.

How to Use the Ayushman Card for Medical Treatment

Once downloaded, the Ayushman Card can be presented at any empaneled hospital listed under the PMJAY scheme. These hospitals have Ayushman Mitras or help desks specifically dedicated to assisting cardholders. The process is designed to be cashless and paperless. Upon showing your card and undergoing identity verification, the hospital staff will proceed with your treatment without any upfront payments required.

The card covers thousands of medical procedures, including surgeries, diagnostic tests, and medications. Beneficiaries can seek treatment across India, giving them the flexibility to choose hospitals based on convenience and quality of care.

Maintaining and Updating Ayushman Card Details

If you change your address, mobile number, or any other relevant details, it is advisable to update the same on the official PMJAY platform or at a Common Service Centre (CSC). Keeping the information up to date ensures uninterrupted service and easier verification at hospitals.

Cardholders should also check the status of their card periodically to ensure it remains valid and active. While the card itself does not expire, changes in eligibility or updated databases can affect access to services if not monitored.