By Kavita Mistry 
In a major move to boost emergency care, the Indian government has implemented a nationwide cashless treatment scheme for road accident victims. The scheme provides up to ₹1.5 lakh in medical coverage per accident, valid for seven days from the date of the incident.
Who Is Eligible?
The scheme is open to anyone injured in a road accident involving a motor vehicle, regardless of their class, background, or location.
- Nationwide coverage
- Applicable to all road users
- No income or identity restrictions
Where Can Victims Be Treated?
Victims are eligible for cashless treatment only at designated hospitals under the scheme.
- Non-designated hospitals may only provide stabilisation care
- Full benefits apply at onboarded hospitals coordinated by NHA
Key Implementation Partners
The scheme will be executed by the National Health Authority (NHA) in collaboration with:
- State Health Agencies
- Police Departments
- Designated Hospitals
- State Road Safety Councils (as nodal agencies)
A central steering committee will oversee progress and ensure nationwide coordination.
Pilot to Policy
This full-scale rollout follows a pilot project launched on March 14, 2024, by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. With positive outcomes, the pilot has now paved the way for nationwide implementation.
Digital Coordination
A dedicated digital portal will streamline:
- Hospital onboarding
- Victim registration
- Treatment tracking
- Payments and audits
Final Word
This new scheme marks a landmark step in public health and road safety, ensuring immediate and equitable emergency care for road accident victims—when it matters most.