Government Health Schemes in India: CGHS, Ayushman Bharat, ESIC & ECHS
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nikhil Singh
Last reviewed: 14 Jun 2026
India has several government health schemes that cover hospital treatment for different groups. This guide explains and links our detailed pages on CGHS, Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY), ESIC and ECHS — who each covers, how rates work, and how to apply or check eligibility.
Scheme Guides, Rates and Eligibility
Explore each scheme:
- Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) Knee Replacement Package Rate
- Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) Cataract Surgery Package Rate
- Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) Angioplasty, Bypass and Dialysis Package Rates
- ESIC Treatment Rates Explained: How Reimbursement Works
- ECHS Rates Explained: How Ex-Servicemen Health Scheme Reimbursement Works
- How to Apply for a CGHS Card: Eligibility and Application Process
- Ayushman Bharat Eligibility: Who Qualifies and How to Check Your Name
- How to Find an Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) Hospital Near You
- ESIC Eligibility and Registration: Who Is Covered and How
- CGHS vs Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY): Key Differences
Which Scheme Applies to You?
- CGHS — central government employees and pensioners in notified cities
- Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) — eligible poor and vulnerable families (SECC-2011), Rs 5 lakh cover
- ESIC — organised-sector workers below the wage ceiling and their dependants
- ECHS — ex-servicemen pensioners and their dependants
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main government health schemes in India?
The main ones are CGHS (central government staff/pensioners), Ayushman Bharat / PM-JAY (poor and vulnerable families), ESIC (organised-sector workers) and ECHS (ex-servicemen).
How do I know which scheme I am eligible for?
Eligibility depends on your employment and category. Use the linked eligibility guides above for CGHS and Ayushman Bharat, and the ESIC guide for organised-sector workers.
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Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.
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The main ones are CGHS (central government staff/pensioners), Ayushman Bharat / PM-JAY (poor and vulnerable families), ESIC (organised-sector workers) and ECHS (ex-servicemen).
Eligibility depends on your employment and category. Use the linked eligibility guides above for CGHS and Ayushman Bharat, and the ESIC guide for organised-sector workers.
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Written by Dr. Nikhil Singh
Last reviewed: 14 June 2026
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.