1. Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM‑JAY)
What it offers: Cashless healthcare coverage up to ₹5 lakh per family per year at empanelled hospitals (govt and private).*
Who benefits: Families identified under the SECC (poorer/ deprived families). No payment at the point of service for covered treatments.
Why it’s key: Widely called India’s world‑largest free healthcare scheme, it helps cover hospitalization costs and serious medical procedures without financial burden.
2. Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)
What it offers:
✔ Free zero‑balance bank account
✔ 🅍₹2 lakh accidental insurance cover
✔ Overdraft facility up to ₹10,000
✔ RuPay debit card for cashless transactions
Who benefits: Any indian citizen (above 10 yrs) with KYC documents.
Why it’s key: Promotes financial inclusion, especially for those without prior bank access.
3. PM Ujjwala Yojana 2.0
What it offers: Free LPG connection + first refill for women of Below Poverty Line (BPL) households — reducing indoor pollution and fuel health risks.
Who benefits: Eligible women from BPL families.
Why it’s key: Helps provide cleaner cooking fuel to poorest households at zero cost for setup.
4. PM Garib kalyan Anna Yojana (Food Security)
What it offers: Free monthly ration — typically 5 kg grain + 1 kg pulses per member for priority/NFSA beneficiaries.
Who benefits: Families under National Food Security Act (Priority Households).
Why it’s key: Ensures basic food security for low‑income households.
5. sarva shiksha abhiyan (SSA)
What it offers: Free and compulsory elementary education (ages 6–14) to all children, aiming at universal schooling.
Who benefits: All children in the eligible age group; particularly supports marginalized groups.
Why it’s key: Aims at bridging educational gaps and improving access to schooling across India.
6. National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS)
What it offers: Free skill training + stipend while training in public/private apprenticeships.
Who benefits: indian youth (typically from age 14 and above) seeking skill development.
Why it’s key: Helps young workers gain practical skills and income support while training.
7. State‑Level Free or Subsidy Benefits
Many states also run free or highly subsidised welfare schemes tailored to local needs:
✔ Gruha Jyoti (Karnataka): Free electricity up to 200 units/month for eligible households.
✔ Karunya Healthcare Scheme (Kerala): Free medical cover up to ₹5 lakh per family for serious illnesses.
✔ Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jan Arogya Yojana (Maharashtra): Free hospital access for poor families for many procedures.
These schemes vary by state but provide direct cost savings on essentials like electricity or health care.
📌 Why These Matter
Government welfare schemes aim to:
✔ Reduce out‑of‑pocket expenses for healthcare, food, and fuel
✔ Promote financial inclusion and savings
✔ Support education and skills development
✔ Offer state‑specific safety nets for vulnerable populations
Across India, platforms like myscheme.gov.in help you check eligibility and access appropriate benefits in one place.
🧾 How to Check Eligibility
👉 Visit official portals like:
- pmjay.gov.in (health)
- pmjdy.gov.in (bank accounts)
- myScheme portal for consolidated eligibility
Provide basic details (Aadhaar, address) to see which schemes you qualify for.
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.
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