Summary of this article
The Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda has launched Ayushman Sarathi, a PM-JAY WhatsApp chatbot.
This gives beneficiaries 24/7 access to Ayushman Bharat scheme services.
It lets users check eligibility, apply for or download Ayushman cards, link Aadhaar, check treatment history, nearby empanelled hospitals, among other services.
The Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, officially launched the Ayushman Sarathi – PM-JAY WhatsApp Chatbot on June 29, 2026, to make the Ayushman Bharat scheme easily accessible to people. The Chatbot is developed by the National Health Authority (NHA). The WhatsApp access to Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) makes the scheme handy for beneficiaries to use its services.
Ayushman Sarathi
The ‘Ayushman Sarathi’ chatbot available on WhatsApp will provide 24-hour access to the scheme’s benefits, and beneficiaries won’t need to visit government offices or contact the call centres to get scheme-related information or access benefits. In short, it will serve as a digital assistant for users.
Robust And Secure Tool
Per the government statement, the chatbot is built on secure API-based integration with existing PM-JAY systems and is more than just an information bot. It is a functional tool that will deliver real-time information and perform services directly within the chat window. This real-time delivery will ensure that beneficiaries get up-to-date information regarding their health benefits under the scheme and their Ayushman card status immediately.
Comprehensive Beneficiary Services
It has a range of user(beneficiary)-centric features, such as Eligibility Check. Users can check whether they are eligible for the PM-JAY benefits or not through the chatbot. Those who have already enrolled can check the status of their card. Under the “My Ayushman Card” section, they can apply for new cards, download existing cards, re-do e-KYC (know your customer), and link Aadhaar details as well. To ensure digital security, the platform allows beneficiaries to lock or unlock their PM-JAY cards.
As the Ayushman Bharat scheme offers Rs 5 lakh insurance to all elderly aged 70 and above, they can access their Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card, which is issued specifically to seniors, enabling them to avail of the scheme’s benefits.
However, there are some other vital features added to the chatbot offering, including a feature to view wallet balance, check treatment history, and locate the nearest empanelled hospital.
Transparency And Feedback
Another important feature this chatbot provides is ‘transparency’. The system allows users to register, track, and even withdraw grievances to enhance transparency in the scheme implementation. Further, it facilitates digital feedback following a patient’s discharge from the hospital. This feedback loop is intended to strengthen service quality monitoring and allow continuous improvement in healthcare delivery.
How To Get Started
To access this digital assistance, beneficiaries need to start a conversation with the official PM-JAY WhatsApp Chatbot by sending the message ‘Hi’ to the number +91 72908 23838 or by scanning the designated QR code. Providing access to the scheme through WhatsApp is a simple entry point which beneficiaries can easily use anytime, anywhere.
FAQs
How can a citizen access the Ayushman Sarathi WhatsApp Chatbot?
Beneficiaries can access the chatbot 24/7 by sending the message “Hi” to +91 72908 23838 or by scanning the official designated QR code.
What specific services can a beneficiary use regarding Ayushman Bharat Yojana through this chatbot?
Users can apply for or download their card, re-do eKYC, link their Aadhaar, and lock or unlock their PM-JAY card via this Ayusman Sarathi WhatsApp interface.
Who developed the Ayushman Sarathi chatbot?
The National Health Authority (NHA) has developed the chatbot. It is designed to provide beneficiaries with faster, more secure access to PM-JAY services.
