Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY): How to check if you have the ₹5 Lakh health cover

The Promise: Free treatment up to ₹5 Lakhs for 50 crore Indians. No premium, zero cost. The Catch: "Ayushman Mitras" (fake agents) charging money to "make" the card, or hospitals denying admission because the card is fake.

1. Am I Eligible?

PM-JAY is an entitlement-based scheme. You cannot "buy" it. You must be on the SECC 2011 Data list or part of State-specific schemes (like Mukhya Mantri Jan Arogya). Check Eligibility:

1. Go to pmjay.gov.in.
2. Click "Am I Eligible".
3. Login with Mobile Number and OTP.
4. Search by Name/HHD Number/Ration Card Number.

2. Generate Your Card (Do It Yourself)

If your name is on the list, you don't need an agent.

1. Visit beneficiary.nha.gov.in.
2. Login as "Beneficiary".
3. Enter your Aadhaar number to authenticate (OTP/Fingerprint/Iris).
4. If eKYC is done, click the Download Icon.
5. Save the PDF. This PDF is as valid as any plastic card.

3. The "Plastic Card" Scam

Scammers set up camps in villages promising a "PVC Golden Card" for ₹200. Reality: The government does not charge for the card generation. The Common Service Centre (CSC) might charge a nominal fee (₹30) for printing, but paying hundreds is a scam.

[!warning] Scam Radar

• Red Flag: "Pay ₹2,000 to get added to the Ayushman list." (You cannot be added if not in the database).
• Red Flag: Calls claiming your card is blocked and asking for OTP to unblock.
• Action: Report fraud to 14555 (PM-JAY Helpline).

4. Using the Card

When you go to a hospital:

1. Go to the "Ayushman Mitra" desk inside the hospital.
2. Show your card/Aadhaar.
3. Important: The treatment is cashless. If the hospital asks for a deposit "which will be refunded later," refusal is your right. Complain immediately.