5 Health Insurance Policies Without 18% GST in India for Low-Income Families

Health insurance is essential, yet high premiums and taxes deter many from getting the right protection. Thankfully, the Indian government offers several schemes where families can avail of health insurance without paying the 18% GST, designed particularly for economically weaker sections. Below are 5 such policies.

Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY)

This flagship health insurance scheme provides an annual floater cover of ₹5,00,000 per family. It includes 3 days of pre-hospitalisation and 15 days of post-hospitalisation expenses. Coverage begins from day 1 for all pre-existing conditions. It targets families in vulnerable socioeconomic conditions, such as domestic workers, street vendors, and ragpickers in urban areas.

Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana

Designed for unorganised sector workers and Below Poverty Line (BPL) families, this scheme covers 5 family members with a sum insured of ₹30,000 annually. The only fee charged is ₹30 for registration and renewal per year. States may customise the scheme further to meet local needs, increasing its flexibility.

Universal Health Insurance Scheme

Initiated in 2003, this scheme is available to both BPL and Above Poverty Line (APL) individuals. Eligibility is for people aged between 3 months and 65 years. The premium for an individual is ₹422 annually, while a family of 5 pays ₹633. It focuses on ensuring basic health cover across income groups, with necessary inclusions for hospitalisation costs.

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Jan Arogya Bima Policy

Aimed at low-income individuals, this plan provides ₹5,000 per person for hospitalisation. Premiums range from ₹81 (for individuals up to 46 years) to ₹162 (for those 66 years and above). However, it excludes coverage for pre-existing illnesses for the first 36 months and imposes a 90-day waiting period for certain chronic conditions.

Niramaya Health Insurance Scheme

This scheme supports Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), offering coverage up to ₹1,00,000 without any medical evaluation. OPD treatments, labs, diagnostics and routine medical checks are covered up to ₹15,000, and preventive dentistry up to ₹4,000. It addresses both physical and mental health needs affordably without GST.

Conclusion

These 5 health insurance schemes highlight the government's efforts to make healthcare affordable by removing the burden of 18% GST. Each policy targets a specific segment of society, ensuring even the most vulnerable communities have access to essential healthcare benefits at minimal cost.

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