Ayushman Bharat (AB‑PMJAY) Cards Reach 43.52 Crore as of 28 Feb 2026 – Statement by Union MoS Prataprao Jadhav

<h2>Overview</h2> <p>The <span class="key-term" data-definition="Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB‑PMJAY) – flagship health insurance scheme of the Government of India providing cash‑less secondary and tertiary care to economically vulnerable families (GS2: Polity, GS3: Social Justice)">AB‑PMJAY</span> has crossed a major milestone. As of <strong>28 February 2026</strong>, a total of <strong>43.52 crore</strong> Ayushman cards have been created, indicating the scheme’s expansive reach across the country.</p> <h2>Key Developments</h2> <ul> <li>Creation of <strong>43.52 crore</strong> Ayushman cards under AB‑PMJAY by 28 Feb 2026.</li> <li>The data was disclosed in a written reply to the <span class="key-term" data-definition="Rajya Sabha – Upper house of the Indian Parliament, representing the states and union territories (GS2: Polity)">Rajya Sabha</span> by the Union <span class="key-term" data-definition="Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare – junior minister assisting the Cabinet Minister in overseeing health policies and programmes (GS2: Polity)">Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav</span>.</li> <li>The information was released through the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s official communication dated 10 March 2026 (Release ID: 2237404).</li> </ul> <h2>Important Facts</h2> <p>The <span class="key-term" data-definition="Ayushman cards – unique identification cards issued to beneficiaries under AB‑PMJAY, enabling them to avail cash‑less medical services at empanelled hospitals (GS3: Social Justice)">Ayushman cards</span> serve as the primary interface between the scheme and its beneficiaries. The figure of 43.52 crore suggests that the scheme is nearing universal coverage of the targeted population, which is estimated at around 10 crore families (≈ 50 crore individuals).</p> <p>The announcement was made by the <span class="key-term" data-definition="Ministry of Health and Family Welfare – central government ministry responsible for formulation and implementation of health policies, programmes and services (GS2: Polity)">Ministry of Health and Family Welfare</span>, underscoring its commitment to transparency and regular reporting.</p> <h2>UPSC Relevance</h2> <p>Understanding the scale of AB‑PMJAY is crucial for GS papers:</p> <ul> <li><strong>GS2 (Polity)</strong>: Examines the design, implementation, and governance of flagship welfare schemes, inter‑ministerial coordination, and parliamentary accountability.</li> <li><strong>GS3 (Social Justice & Welfare)</strong>: Analyses the impact of health insurance on poverty alleviation, health outcomes, and fiscal sustainability.</li> <li><strong>GS4 (Ethics)</strong>: Raises questions on equitable access, quality of care, and the ethical responsibilities of the state towards vulnerable sections.</li> </ul> <h2>Way Forward</h2> <p>While the sheer number of cards indicates extensive enrolment, aspirants should consider the following challenges for future analysis:</p> <ul> <li>Ensuring that all card‑holders can actually access empanelled hospitals without undue delays.</li> <li>Monitoring fraud and duplication to safeguard public funds.</li> <li>Integrating the scheme with other health initiatives like the National Health Mission for a holistic approach.</li> <li>Assessing fiscal implications as the beneficiary base expands.</li> </ul> <p>These aspects provide fertile ground for answer writing in essay and case‑study questions in the UPSC mains examination.</p>