Government Health Insurance Schemes in India

Check the list of government health insurance schemes in India and choose a health insurance that suits you the best.
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Government Health Insurance Schemes in India
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5 mins
04-December-2025

Government health insurance schemes aim to make quality healthcare accessible and affordable for all. Promoting awareness about health concerns, establishing robust infrastructure, and advocating for health insurance are proactive initiatives carried out by authorities for the well-being of the public. The Indian Government also implements such measures periodically. In this article, take a closer look at the various government health insurance schemes in India.

What is a government health insurance scheme?

A government health insurance scheme is a comprehensive initiative by the central or state government to make healthcare coverage accessible and affordable to a diverse cross-section of the population. These schemes, unlike regular health insurance plans offered by private entities, are crafted with a keen focus on inclusivity, aiming to address the varied healthcare needs of citizens across the country.

The primary objective of government health insurance schemes is to provide financial protection during medical emergencies, ensuring that individuals and families are shielded from exorbitant medical costs. Government health schemes in India frequently encompass a wide range of medical treatments, which span hospitalisation, surgeries, and pre- as well as post-hospitalisation expenses. These initiatives serve as a safety net for individuals who might lack access to or the financial resources for private health insurance.

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Difference between regular health insurance plans and government health insurance schemes

Here is a comparative analysis between regular health insurance plans and government health insurance schemes for better understanding of their distinguishing features.

Criteria

Regular health insurance plans

Government health insurance schemes

Target audience

Usually caters to salaried individuals, businessmen, and their families.

Aimed at a broader demographic, including economically weaker section.

Inclusivity

May have certain eligibility criteria and might exclude certain pre-existing conditions.

Emphasises inclusivity, covering a wide range of individuals.

Pricing structure

Premiums may be high and vary based on factors such as age, health condition, and coverage.

Often features lower premiums and subsidies, ensuring affordability for a larger population.

Coverage customisation

Offers a variety of plans with different coverage levels and add-ons.

Designed with standardised coverage to cater to basic healthcare needs uniformly.

Access to healthcare providers

The network of hospitals and healthcare providers may be extensive but not universal.

Aims to create a wide network, often involving government and private healthcare facilities.

Government backing

Private entities provide coverage, and policies are regulated by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).

Government-backed initiatives, supported by ministries or state health departments.

Preventive healthcare initiatives

Coverage often focuses on curative aspects of healthcare.

May include initiatives and campaigns for preventive healthcare and awareness.

Understanding these differences helps individuals make informed choices based on their specific needs and circumstances.

List of popular government health insurance schemes in India

Here’s a list of 17 popular government health schemes in India.

  1. Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY): Covering over 10 crore vulnerable families, PM-JAY offers up to Rs. 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalisation.

  2. Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY): Providing cashless insurance coverage for hospitalisation expenses to below-poverty-line families.

  3. Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS): Offering comprehensive healthcare coverage to central government employees through a network of empanelled hospitals. Read more about Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) for detailed information.

  4. Employment State Insurance (ESI) Scheme: Catering to employees in specific sectors, ESI provides medical benefits and cash compensation during sickness and maternity.

  5. Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY): A low-cost accidental insurance scheme offering coverage for accidental death and disability.

  6. Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY): A one-year life cover of Rs. 2 lakh at a nominal premium, providing renewable life insurance.

  7. Awaz Health Insurance Scheme: The Kerala government offers this health insurance and accidental death cover specifically to migrant workers.

  8. Pradhan Mantri Matritva Vandana Yojana (PMMVY): Supporting pregnant women and lactating mothers with cash incentives for improved maternal healthcare practices.

  9. National Health Mission (NHM): Focused on primary healthcare, NHM aims to provide accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare to rural populations.

  10. Deen Dayal Swasthya Seva Yojana (DDSSY): In Goa, DDSSY provides coverage for specified surgeries and illnesses for all residents.

  11. Mukhyamantri Amrutum Yojana (MAY): In Gujarat, MAY offers cashless quality medical and surgical treatment for catastrophic illnesses.

  12. Chief Minister's Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme (CMCHIS): Tamil Nadu's initiative provides financial protection for families living below the poverty line for specified high-cost treatments.

  13. Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (BSKY): In Odisha, BSKY offers health coverage for nearly 70 lakh families for all health interventions, including secondary and tertiary care.

  14. Aam Aadmi Swasthya Bima Yojana (AASBY): In Delhi, AASBY provides financial protection against catastrophic health expenses for residents of the state.

  15. Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jan Arogya Yojana (MJPJAY): Maharashtra's scheme covers over 2 crore families for hospitalisation expenses.

  16. Arogya Karnataka Scheme: Providing universal health coverage in Karnataka, this scheme offers comprehensive healthcare benefits for all residents.

  17. Bhamashah Swasthya Bima Yojana (BSBY): In Rajasthan, BSBY offers cashless treatment for specified hospitalization expenses to eligible families.

In conclusion, government health insurance schemes in India play a pivotal role in democratising healthcare, ensuring that every citizen has access to quality medical services without bearing the brunt of financial hardships. The unique features and widespread coverage of these schemes make them a cornerstone in the nation's quest for inclusive and accessible healthcare. As individuals navigate the healthcare landscape, understanding the benefits and distinctions of government health insurance schemes allows for informed decision-making, ultimately leading to a healthier and more resilient India.

Check Out Other Government Health Insurance Plans

Swasthya Sathi

Abha Card

PMMVY Scheme

Beneficiary Nha

Employees State Insurance Scheme

Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jan Arogya Yojana

Gram Suvidha Policy

Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana

Pradhan Mantri Sukarsha Bima Yojana

Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of launching government health insurance schemes?

The government health insurance schemes are designed to provide financial assistance and affordable healthcare to those who cannot afford private health insurance. The government subsidises the cost of health care for those who cannot afford it, allowing them to access medical treatment they may not be able to afford otherwise.

Is there any eligibility criteria to buy public health insurance schemes?

Yes, there are eligibility criteria for purchasing public health insurance schemes. These criteria vary depending on specific health insurance scheme. However, typically, certain medical conditions or pre-existing conditions may be excluded from coverage, while other criteria may include income level, age, and residential status.

Are there any limitations in the government health insurance schemes?

Like any insurance policy, there are limitations and exclusions in government health insurance schemes. These can vary depending on the particular health insurance plan and can include things like limits on prescription drug coverage, out-of-pocket expenses, or restrictions on certain procedures or treatments.

Why does the government come up with public health insurance schemes?

The government introduces public health insurance schemes to provide access to essential healthcare facilities for all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic status. These schemes not only provide financial protection for individuals, but they also help to promote their health and well-being. Additionally, public health insurance schemes can help reduce overall healthcare costs by spreading the risk of healthcare expenses across a larger population.

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