Why in news?
The National Health Authority (NHA) launched a WhatsApp chatbot called Ayushman Sarathi under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM‑JAY). The service provides 24 × 7 assistance to beneficiaries through WhatsApp number +91 72908 23838. Users can check eligibility, download their Ayushman card and perform other tasks from home. The chatbot aims to reduce visits to healthcare facilities and improve transparency in scheme services.
Background
Ayushman Bharat PM‑JAY is India’s flagship health insurance scheme providing free coverage of ₹5 lakh per family per year to poor and vulnerable households. Implemented by the NHA since 2018, it covers secondary and tertiary healthcare through an empanelled network of public and private hospitals. Beneficiaries receive a digital Ayushman card which verifies their identity at hospitals. In June 2026 the NHA added a chatbot on WhatsApp to make scheme services more accessible.
Key features
- Digital assistance: The chatbot allows users to check if they are eligible for PM‑JAY benefits, complete e‑KYC and link their Aadhaar number to the health scheme.
- Card management: Beneficiaries can apply for and download the Ayushman card, lock or unlock it, and obtain the Ayushman Vaya Vandana card for senior citizens aged 70 years and above.
- Account and history: Users can view their health wallet balance and treatment history, locate nearby empanelled hospitals and register grievances or feedback.
- Ease of use: The chatbot is available in Hindi and English on WhatsApp. It offers step‑by‑step guidance and reduces the need to visit hospitals or government offices.
Conclusion
Ayushman Sarathi demonstrates how digital tools can simplify government schemes. By offering eligibility checks, card downloads and grievance redress through a familiar messaging app, the NHA hopes to reach more beneficiaries. Continued promotion and support will be necessary to ensure that rural and less educated users adopt the service.