Government Launches PM RAHAT Scheme for Cashless Treatment of Road Accident Victims
In a major citizen-centric decision, the Union Government has launched the PM RAHAT (Road Accident Victim Hospitalization and Assured Treatment) Scheme to provide cashless and time-bound medical care to road accident victims across the country. The approval, granted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reflects a governance approach focused on service, compassion and protection of vulnerable citizens.
The scheme aims to ensure that no life is lost due to the lack of immediate medical assistance following a road accident. India records a high number of road fatalities each year, and studies suggest that nearly half of these deaths can be prevented if victims receive hospital treatment within the first “Golden Hour.” Recognizing this urgent need, the government has designed PM RAHAT to prioritize swift medical intervention, financial certainty for hospitals and a structured emergency response system.
A key feature of the initiative is its integration with the national Emergency Response Support System through the 112 helpline. Accident victims, Good Samaritans—referred to as Rah-Veers—or any person present at the accident site can dial 112 to obtain information about the nearest designated hospital and request ambulance assistance. This system is intended to facilitate rapid coordination among emergency responders, police authorities and hospitals, ensuring victims are transported and admitted without delay.
Under PM RAHAT, every eligible road accident victim on any category of road will be entitled to cashless treatment up to ₹1.5 lakh per person for a period of seven days from the date of the accident. The scheme provides for stabilization treatment of up to 24 hours in non-life-threatening cases and up to 48 hours in life-threatening cases. Police authentication through an integrated digital system is required within defined timelines to ensure accountability while allowing uninterrupted emergency care.
The implementation framework of PM RAHAT is technology-driven and integrates the Electronic Detailed Accident Report (eDAR) platform of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways with the Transaction Management System (TMS 2.0) of the National Health Authority. This digital integration creates a seamless process beginning from accident reporting to hospital admission, police verification, treatment administration, claim processing and final payment settlement. Police confirmation must be completed within 24 hours for non-critical cases and 48 hours for critical cases.
Financial reimbursement to hospitals will be made through the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund. In cases where the offending vehicle is insured, payments will be drawn from contributions made by general insurance companies. In uninsured or hit-and-run cases, compensation will be covered through budgetary support from the Government of India. Claims approved by the State Health Agency are to be settled within 10 days, providing financial assurance to healthcare providers and encouraging uninterrupted treatment.
To strengthen accountability at the grassroots level, grievances of road accident victims will be addressed by a Grievance Redressal Officer nominated by the District Road Safety Committee, chaired by the District Collector, District Magistrate or Deputy Commissioner. This ensures oversight and prompt resolution of complaints at the district level.
The launch of PM RAHAT marks a significant step towards strengthening India’s emergency care ecosystem. By combining technology, financial safeguards and coordinated emergency response, the scheme seeks to save thousands of lives each year. With assured cashless treatment and structured institutional support, the government aims to ensure that no road accident victim is denied life-saving care due to financial constraints.
