Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct. 27: The Government of India has introduced the Prime Minister – Road Accident Victims’ Hospitalisation and Assured Treatment (PM-RAHAT) Scheme with the objective of ensuring timely medical assistance to road accident victims and preventing avoidable loss of life due to delays in treatment or lack of immediate financial resources. The scheme was launched nationwide on Feb. 13, 2026 and aims to strengthen emergency medical care during the critical first hour after a road accident, commonly known as the ‘Golden Hour’.
Under the scheme, eligible victims of road accidents involving motor vehicles, irrespective of the category of road on which the accident occurs, are entitled to cashless treatment up to Rs. 1.5 lakh per victim for a maximum period of seven days from the date of the accident, subject to the prescribed guidelines. The scheme is intended to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent accident victims from receiving necessary medical treatment.
In the event of a road accident, the victim, family member, bystander or any Good Samaritan may immediately dial 112 for emergency assistance, ambulance support and information regarding the nearest designated hospital. The victim should be taken to the nearest appropriate medical facility without delay. At a designated hospital, treatment and the necessary formalities under the scheme are processed through the prescribed digital system, with accident details verified by the concerned authorities in accordance with the scheme guidelines. Hospitals other than designated hospitals are required to provide stabilisation treatment as prescribed under the scheme, before referral or transfer, wherever necessary. Stabilisation treatment may be provided for up to 24 hours in non-life-threatening cases and up to 48 hours in life-threatening cases, subject to the applicable guidelines and police authentication requirements.
In accordance with the communication received from the Directorate of Health Services, A&N Administration, regarding empanelment of hospitals in this scheme, the following hospitals have been included under PM-RAHAT scheme so far:
•G.B. Pant Hospital, Sri Vijaya Puram.
•Bishop John Richardson Hospital, Car Nicobar.
•Dr. Rajendra Prasad Hospital, Mayabunder.
•Community Health Centre (CHC), Diglipur.
•Community Health Centre (CHC), Rangat.
•Community Health Centre (CHC), Nancowry.
•Community Health Centre (CHC), Bambooflat.
Efforts are being taken by the Health Department to onboard more hospitals including private hospitals.
Members of the public are advised to contact 112 for emergency assistance and information about the nearest designated hospital. Prompt reporting of accidents and timely transportation of victims to an appropriate hospital can significantly improve the chances of survival.
The Transport Department appeals to all road users to strictly observe traffic rules, wear helmets and seat belts, maintain safe speeds, avoid distracted driving and never drive under the influence of alcohol. Citizens are also requested to assist accident victims by promptly informing emergency services and to spread awareness about the PM-RAHAT Scheme.