Chief Secretary Emphasizes Measures to Prevent Fraudulent Ayushman Cards
State Implements Stringent Verification Protocols for Ayushman Card Issuance and Usage
Dehradun: Chief Secretary Smt. Radha Raturi has clarified the process and security measures surrounding the issuance and verification of Ayushman cards in the state. Highlighting the importance of ensuring authenticity, she stated that Ayushman cards are issued exclusively to beneficiaries holding NFSA/SFSA ration cards. Aadhaar details are utilized only for KYC during the card creation process, and the state does not retain access to stored Aadhaar data in its database.
To curb fraudulent activities and ensure the integrity of the scheme, the state government has outlined the following measures:
- Analysis and Verification of Existing Cards: Collaboration with the National Health Authority (NHA) will ensure the scrutiny of already issued Ayushman cards.
- Hospital Advisory for Aadhaar Address Verification: Empanelled hospitals will be instructed to authenticate Aadhaar addresses during patient admissions by requiring the original Aadhaar and ration cards.
- Food Department Involvement: Instructions will be issued to the Food Department to verify ration cards issued in the past 1-2 years, particularly those with only one member listed.
- Stringent Checks for Out-of-State Beneficiaries: Hospitals will be directed to remain vigilant regarding beneficiaries from other states and demand original identification documents.
- Monitoring of Common Service Centres: Common Service Centres will face strict warnings against indulging in fraudulent activities, with the threat of stringent actions for violations.
- Heightened Alertness by SHA: The State Health Authority (SHA) will adopt proactive measures to detect and deter any fraudulent activities related to Ayushman cards.
The Chief Secretary has emphasized the importance of adhering to these measures to maintain the credibility and success of the Ayushman scheme. She reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that genuine beneficiaries receive the intended benefits while curbing misuse.
