The Government of India has officially launched the PM RAHAT (Road Accident Victim Hospitalization and Assured Treatment) scheme to provide immediate medical relief to road accident victims. This nationwide initiative focuses on the ‘Golden Hour’ to ensure that people injured in accidents get treatment without any financial delay. Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the scheme on February 14, 2026, marking it as a significant step toward reducing road fatalities across the country.
Key Benefits and Rules of PM RAHAT Scheme
The scheme is designed to cover everyone involved in a motor vehicle accident, including drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. It removes the need for immediate cash payments at hospitals, which often saves lives during emergencies. The treatment is valid at all empanelled hospitals listed on the scheme’s digital platform.
- Cashless Limit: Victims can receive treatment worth up to ₹1.5 lakh.
- Coverage Period: The financial support is available for up to 7 days from the time of the accident.
- Road Categories: The scheme applies to accidents on National Highways, State Highways, and rural roads.
- Emergency Support: Citizens can dial 112 to get an ambulance and find the nearest hospital.
Technical Framework and Claim Settlement
The PM RAHAT scheme operates through a digital integration of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and the National Health Authority (NHA). To ensure hospitals do not face liquidity issues, the government has set strict timelines for releasing payments. The Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (MVAF) will be used to reimburse hospitals for the care provided to victims.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | February 14, 2026 |
| Claim Settlement | Within 10 days of approval |
| Stabilization Time | 24 to 48 hours for critical cases |
| Digital Platform | TMS 2.0 and eDAR integration |
| Funding Source | MVAF and Insurance contributions |
Official reports from MoRTH suggest that nearly 50% of road accident deaths are preventable if victims reach a hospital within sixty minutes. By providing a financial guarantee of ₹1.5 lakh, the government aims to ensure that no hospital refuses treatment due to payment concerns. States like Chhattisgarh have already started integrating their existing health infrastructure with this new framework.
