Government Introduces PM RAHAT Scheme for Road Accident Victims

The government has announced a new program called PM RAHAT, which stands for Road Accident Victim Hospitalization and Assured Treatment. This scheme is designed to help people who are hurt in road accidents by giving them free and fast medical care. It started on February 14, 2026, and covers all victims of road accidents in India. The main goal of the scheme is to make sure that people injured in accidents get medical help right away. This is important because studies show that nearly half of all deaths from road accidents could be prevented if victims received treatment within the first hour. Key highlights of PM RAHAT include several features to provide effective support. First, it offers cashless treatment for victims up to 1.5 lakh rupees. This coverage lasts for seven days from the date of the accident. The money is meant to help pay for medical bills so victims don’t have to worry about costs. In addition, the scheme provides stabilization care. For injuries that are not life-threatening, hospitals can give treatment to keep the person stable for up to 24 hours. For life-threatening injuries, hospitals can provide stabilization for up to 48 hours. This helps ensure that victims are stabilized and ready for ongoing treatment. All road accident victims in India are eligible for this scheme, regardless of their insurance status or the cause of the accident. The scheme is closely linked with the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) 112 helpline. This connection allows emergency responders, police, and hospitals to work together quickly to help accident victims. Funding for the scheme comes from various sources. Payments to hospitals are made through the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (MVAF). For vehicles that are insured, the government and insurance companies contribute to the fund. For uninsured vehicles or hit-and-run cases, the government provides budgetary support to ensure victims receive treatment. Another important part of PM RAHAT is claim processing. If hospitals make claims for reimbursement, these claims will be settled within 10 days. This quick settlement helps hospitals manage their finances and continue offering emergency care. Police authentication is also mandatory under this scheme. Hospitals must get police verification within 24 hours for cases that are not life-threatening. For life-threatening cases, police authentication must be completed within 48 hours. This step helps ensure accountability and proper record-keeping. The background of the scheme highlights that providing timely medical attention is crucial in reducing deaths from road accidents. The government’s move aims to improve emergency response and medical care, saving lives and reducing suffering for accident victims. In summary, the PM RAHAT scheme is a significant step toward improving road safety and emergency medical services in India. By providing immediate, free, and effective care, it seeks to ensure that accident victims receive the help they need quickly. The scheme is designed to be efficient, transparent, and accessible to all, making it a vital part of India’s national efforts to save lives and offer support to those affected by road accidents.