The government is preparing to significantly expand the scope of the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, aiming to increase the current insurance cover from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh.
This proposal is part of a report submitted by the Group of Secretaries (GoS). The plan also includes raising the number of beneficiaries from 55 crore to 100 crore over the next five years.
Enhanced Benefits for Women
In special or critical conditions, women may receive insurance coverage of up to ₹15 lakh under the scheme. This initiative aims to provide enhanced protection and care for women in vulnerable situations.
Increase in Private Hospital Beds
To support the expanded coverage, the plan includes increasing the number of beds available under the scheme in private hospitals.
Currently, there are about 7.22 lakh beds available, and the target is to raise this to 9.32 lakh by 2026-27 and further to 11.12 lakh by 2028-29.
Report of the Group of Secretaries
The GoS has been tasked with setting targets and timelines for the next five years. The Group, which includes nine ministries such as Health, AYUSH, Sports, Culture, and Education, is expected to present its recommendations to the Cabinet Secretary soon.
Current Statistics and Future Goals
As of June 30, approximately 7.37 crore people have been hospitalized under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana.
The Union Health Ministry’s data shows that nearly 49% of Ayushman cards and 48% of authorized hospitalizations are for women.
This expansion is expected to enhance the scheme’s reach and effectiveness, providing greater healthcare access to a larger segment of the population.
