The Ayushman Bharat Yojana is one of the flagship healthcare schemes launched by the government of india in 2018. It aims to provide health coverage to economically vulnerable families by offering financial protection against high medical costs. But the question many people have is: Can someone between the ages of 20-30 get an Ayushman Bharat Card?

Let’s break down the eligibility and rules to see who can benefit from this health insurance scheme.

What is Ayushman Bharat Yojana?

Ayushman Bharat, also known as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), provides health insurance coverage of ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization. The scheme aims to ensure universal health coverage for poor and vulnerable families, particularly those below the poverty line (BPL).

Eligibility for Ayushman Bharat Yojana

1. Socio-Economic Criteria:

· Ayushman Bharat Yojana primarily targets families from lower economic backgrounds.

· The scheme is not based on age, but on economic and social status.

· It is aimed at people who belong to the economically weaker sections and are often unable to afford expensive medical treatment.

2. Beneficiary Criteria

The beneficiaries of Ayushman Bharat are identified using a list of socio-economic criteria, which include:

· Families from the bottom 40% of the population based on income levels.

· Families included in the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) database.

· Rural families with a landholding of less than 5 acres, families without a pucca house, or families earning below the poverty line.

· Urban families with an income of less than ₹5,00,000 annually.

So, while age is not a direct factor, if someone between the ages of 20-30 falls under the above criteria, they can get the Ayushman Bharat Card.

Specifics for Young Adults (20-30 Years Old)

If you’re between 20-30 years old, you may still be eligible for the Ayushman Bharat Card if you belong to a household that meets the socio-economic criteria set by the government.

Here’s how it can apply to young adults:

· Family-based Coverage: The scheme provides coverage to families, so even if you are young and unmarried, if your family qualifies for the scheme, you can be included in the health benefits.

· Married or Single: If you are married and your family is eligible for the scheme, you can get coverage as part of the family unit.

· Dependents: Even if you are living independently but still dependent on your parents or guardians, you can be covered under the family's Ayushman Bharat Yojana card.

How to Check Eligibility for Ayushman Bharat Card

If you are between 20-30 years old and want to know whether you qualify for the scheme, here are a few ways to check:

1. Use the Ayushman Bharat Website:

· Visit the official PMJAY website: pmjay.gov.in.

· Click on the "Check Eligibility" tab.

· Enter your mobile number and state details or use your family ID (if available).

· You will receive a confirmation message if you are eligible for the Ayushman Bharat card.

2. Visit the nearest Common service Centre (CSC):

· If you don’t have internet access, visit your nearest CSC or public health facility.

· Provide your details, and they will help you check if your family qualifies.

3. Ayushman Bharat mobile App:

· You can also download the Ayushman Bharat mobile App to check your eligibility and register for the scheme.

Documents Required for Applying for Ayushman Bharat Card

When applying for the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, you will need to submit the following documents:

1. Identity Proof: Aadhaar card, voter ID, or any government-issued ID.

2. Address Proof: Aadhaar card (if not already used), utility bill, or bank passbook.

3. Income Proof: If applicable, income certificates, especially if you belong to the economically weaker sections.

4. Family Details: The application may ask for family members' details (name, age, relationship), so keep that ready.

5. Photograph: Passport-sized photo (if required).

Key Points to Remember

· No Age Restrictions: Age does not directly impact eligibility, so if you are 20-30 years old, you can still be covered if you belong to an eligible family.

· Health Coverage for Family: Even if you are young and don’t have your own family yet, as long as you are part of a family that qualifies, you can avail of health benefits.

· Targeting the Poor and Vulnerable: The scheme focuses on the economically disadvantaged families, so your eligibility largely depends on the socio-economic status rather than your age.

Benefits of Ayushman Bharat Yojana for Young Adults

For young adults between the ages of 20-30, the Ayushman Bharat scheme can be an important health safety net, especially as they transition into adulthood and may face new health challenges. The scheme offers:

· Cashless Treatment: You can receive cashless medical treatment at over 15,000 hospitals across India.

· Comprehensive Coverage: The ₹5 lakh coverage can be used for both pre-hospitalization and post-hospitalization expenses, including surgeries, treatment, and critical care.

· No Age Restrictions for Beneficiaries: Whether you’re in your 20s or 30s, the benefits of the scheme extend to all ages within the eligible family unit.

Conclusion

Yes, individuals between the ages of 20-30 can apply for the Ayushman Bharat Card as long as they belong to an eligible family. The Ayushman Bharat Yojana does not have an age limit, but it is aimed at economically disadvantaged families. If your family meets the socio-economic criteria, you are eligible for coverage, regardless of age.

To check eligibility, use the official website, the PMJAY mobile app, or visit a Common service Centre for assistance in applying for your Ayushman Bharat Card.

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.