The Ayushman Bharat scheme provides eligible beneficiaries with access to cashless hospital treatment of up to ₹5 lakh under the applicable scheme provisions. However, fraudsters may misuse the scheme’s name to demand money for issuing or updating Ayushman cards or to obtain sensitive personal information.
People should be cautious if an unknown person claims they can arrange an Ayushman card in exchange for payment. According to a warning shared by the official PMJAY-UP (Ayushman Uttar Pradesh) account on X, people should not pay unknown individuals for an Ayushman card or disclose personal information to them.
Ayushman Card Is Issued Based on Eligibility
An Ayushman card is available to individuals who meet the eligibility criteria established under the scheme. It is not automatically issued to everyone.
People who want to obtain a card should first check whether they qualify through the official Ayushman Bharat or PM-JAY platform. They should avoid relying on individuals who promise guaranteed approval in exchange for money.
If someone demands payment while claiming to represent the scheme, verify the information through official channels before taking any action.
Beware of Fake Calls Asking for OTPs
Fraudsters may contact people by phone or message and claim that their Ayushman card is about to be deactivated. They may then ask the recipient to update the card immediately by sharing a one-time password (OTP), bank details or other personal information.
Such requests should be treated with caution. Never share an OTP, banking credentials or other sensitive information with an unknown caller. Avoid clicking on suspicious links sent through SMS or messaging applications.
If you receive a call claiming that your card needs urgent renewal or updating, independently verify the claim through official scheme channels rather than following the caller’s instructions.
How to Report Ayushman Card Fraud
If someone demands money or attempts to collect sensitive information by misusing the Ayushman Bharat scheme’s name, beneficiaries can seek assistance through the scheme’s official grievance channels.
The helpline numbers mentioned in the available information are 14555 and 1800-11-1565. People can also submit a complaint through the PM-JAY grievance portal.
Before sharing personal details or making any payment, confirm that the request comes from an authorised source. Remaining alert to suspicious calls and messages can help protect beneficiaries from financial fraud.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only. Scheme eligibility, card issuance procedures and official contact details should be verified through authorised Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY sources. Readers should avoid sharing confidential information or making payments in response to unverified calls, messages or requests.