In a major healthcare reform, the Punjab Government has announced a universal health insurance scheme offering ₹10 lakh cashless treatment to every resident of the state—no income proof, ration card, or Ayushman Bharat registration needed. All that is required is a Punjab-based Aadhaar card or voter ID.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, joined by AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal, unveiled the new scheme during a public event. The revamped version of the existing Mukhyamantri Sehat Bima Yojana aims to cover 65 lakh families in the state, ensuring access to top-quality medical treatment across both government and private hospitals.

Starting October 2, 2025, beneficiaries will be able to register and receive their Sehat Cards for free cashless medical services.

• ₹10 Lakh Annual Health Coverage: Each family will be entitled to cashless treatment worth ₹10 lakh per year, which can be used by all members of the household.

• Covers Government & Private Hospitals: The scheme is valid in both public and empaneled private hospitals across Punjab.

• No Income or Ration Card Required: Regardless of income level, all permanent residents of Punjab are eligible.

• One ID is Enough: Aadhaar Card or Voter ID (linked to Punjab address) is sufficient for enrollment.

• Wide Beneficiary Base: The scheme will also include government employees, Anganwadi workers, and ASHA workers.

The best part of the scheme is its universal nature. The eligibility criteria are minimal:

• Must be a resident of Punjab

• Must possess a Punjab-issued Aadhaar card or Voter ID

• No restrictions based on income, employment, or ration card status

• No need to be a beneficiary under Ayushman Bharat

Whether you're a government employee or a daily wage worker, the scheme ensures equal access to healthcare.

• Sehat Card registration will begin from October 2, 2025

• The Punjab government is expected to launch an online portal for smooth application and verification

• Additionally, special enrollment camps will be set up in villages and urban areas to assist those without internet access

• Once registered, residents can use their Aadhaar-linked Sehat Card at empaneled hospitals for free treatment

This initiative stands apart because it removes bureaucratic hurdles. Where most health insurance schemes demand income proofs, ration cards, or complex eligibility documents, Punjab's model is simple, inclusive, and digital-friendly.

Even people who missed out on Ayushman Bharat or lack government IDs like ration cards now have a path to free healthcare. With this, Punjab becomes the first state to provide universal health insurance without economic or social filters.

With rising healthcare costs and hospital bills putting pressure on middle and lower-income families, Punjab’s ₹10 lakh cashless treatment scheme could