image credits: Dr. Mukesh Mahaling
In Odisha, the official launch of Ayushman Bharat Yojana and Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana is scheduled for April 11, 2025. This landmark event will be graced by Union Health Minister JP Nadda and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, alongside notable dignitaries such as Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan, Jual Oram, and Aswini Vaishnaw, and Deputy Chief Ministers KV Singh Deo and Pravati Parida is set to be held at the Bali Yatra Ground in Cuttack. The initiative promises to bring quality healthcare within reach for approximately 3.50 crore individuals across 1.3 crore families in the state.
A Dual Scheme for Comprehensive Coverage
The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) is a flagship national health insurance scheme launched in 2018, aimed at providing Rs 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization. It targets over 50 crore vulnerable citizens nationwide, identified through the Socio-Economic Caste Census 2011 (SECC 2011). In Odisha, this scheme integrates with the state’s Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY), previously known as the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana, which has been renamed under the current government. GJAY offers free healthcare up to Rs 5 lakh for rural residents and Rs 6 lakh for urban residents, focusing on economically weaker sections.
Together, these schemes will provide a unified health card namely the Ayushman Card and Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Card, valid across more than 29,000 empanelled hospitals nationwide. This is a significant upgrade from the previous health card, which was limited to around 900 hospitals. Additionally, the Vaya Vandana card, a component of AB-PMJAY, will ensure senior citizens aged 70 and above receive Rs 5 lakh coverage annually, irrespective of their financial background.
What are the Eligibility Criteria for the Beneficiaries?
The combined initiative targets 1.3 crore families in Odisha, covering approximately 3.50 crore individuals. Eligibility for AB-PMJAY is based on SECC 2011 data, focusing on deprived rural households and specific occupational categories in urban areas. Families with active Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) cards as of February 2018 are also included. For GJAY, all permanent residents of Odisha below the poverty line qualify, with 90% of the state’s population expected to benefit.
The Vaya Vandana card extends coverage to all senior citizens above 70, making it a unique feature that prioritizes the elderly. Unlike earlier family-based cards, the new cards will be issued individually.
Key Benefits for Odisha Residents
The Ayushman Bharat Yojana and Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana offers several advantages:
- Cashless Treatment: Beneficiaries can access healthcare without upfront payments or third-party involvement, reducing financial stress.
- Wider Hospital Network: Coverage extends to over 29,000 hospitals across India, compared to the earlier 900, ensuring greater choice and convenience.
- Financial Security: With up to Rs 5 lakh (and Rs 6 lakh for urban GJAY beneficiaries) per year, families are protected from medical expenses that could push them into poverty.
- Senior Citizen Focus: The Vaya Vandana card ensures elderly citizens receive dedicated support, a critical need in an ageing population.
The state anticipates increased central funding, with Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling noting that Odisha could have received Rs 3,000 crore since 2018 had the scheme been adopted earlier.
How to Apply for these Schemes: Step-by-Step Guide
For Ayushman Bharat (AB-PMJAY):
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to www.pmjay.gov.in or a Common Service Centre (CSC).
- Check Eligibility: Use your mobile number, Aadhaar, or RSBY URN to verify if you’re listed in the SECC 2011 database.
- Submit Details: Provide your name, address, and valid ID (Aadhaar preferred, though not mandatory).
- Verification: An Arogya Mitra at the CSC or empanelled hospital will assist with e-KYC and document upload.
- Card Issuance: Once approved, download your Ayushman Card online or collect it from the CSC.
For Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana:
- Access the BSKY Portal: Visit the official GJAY website or CSC.
- Log In: Enter your username, password, and captcha (new users must register first).
- Fill Application: Provide personal details and attach required documents (e.g., Aadhaar, residence proof).
- Submit: Review and submit the form; a dashboard option allows you to download the GJAY Card post-approval.
- Collect Card: Obtain it from a CSC or use an existing card for immediate treatment.
Raising Awareness Across Villages
Starting April 11, the Swasthya Chetana Ratha will travel through Odisha’s villages for seven days, distributing leaflets to every household. ASHA workers will support this effort by ensuring rural residents are informed. Those without cards initially can still access treatment at empanelled hospitals using their Aadhaar or previous health card.
