1.38 Lakh Ayushman Cards Deactivated in Amreli

Amreli: In a major disruption for healthcare beneficiaries, 1,38,993 Ayushman Bharat cards in Amreli district have been deactivated after beneficiaries failed to update their income proof for over three years, triggering a rush at government offices.

Residents had already been crowding Mamlatdar offices in recent months to link Aadhaar with ration cards, followed by Aadhaar–PAN linking and associated penalties. Now, the sudden deactivation of Ayushman cards has intensified public inconvenience.

Although SMS alerts were sent, many beneficiaries remained unaware until they reached hospitals in emergencies and discovered their cards had been blocked, causing delays in treatment.

Health Department officials said income certificates are valid for three years, after which the system automatically disables the card. A special drive is also underway to help citizens above 70 update their documents. However, those whose income now exceeds eligibility limits will not be able to reactivate their cards, officials added.

Reactivation Only at PHC/CHC

To reactivate the card, beneficiaries must visit their nearest PHC or CHC with a copy of the card and updated income proof. Physical presence is mandatory as a fresh photograph is required. DeshGujarat