PM RAHAT Scheme Strengthens Emergency Care for Road Accident Victims

Launch and purpose

PM RAHAT Scheme Strengthens Emergency Care for Road Accident Victims: The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the launch of the PM RAHAT Scheme (Road Accident Victim Hospitalization and Assured Treatment) on February 14, 2026, from Seva Teerth. The scheme ensures that road accident victims receive cashless emergency treatment without financial barriers. It aims to prevent avoidable deaths by improving access to immediate trauma care.

Under this scheme, accident victims are eligible for cashless treatment up to ₹1.5 lakh per person. The coverage is provided for 7 days from the date of accident, ensuring stabilization and life-saving interventions. This initiative strengthens India’s emergency response infrastructure and promotes inclusive healthcare access.

Static GK fact: India has one of the largest road networks in the world, covering over 6.3 million kilometres.

Importance of Golden Hour treatment

The scheme focuses on the Golden Hour, which refers to the first one hour after a traumatic injury. Medical studies show that timely intervention during this period significantly improves survival chances. Nearly 50% of road accident fatalities can be prevented with prompt medical care.

The PM RAHAT Scheme ensures immediate hospital admission without payment requirements. Hospitals are assured reimbursement, encouraging them to provide uninterrupted treatment. This reduces delays caused by financial verification and saves critical time.

Static GK Tip: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is responsible for road safety policies in India.

Key benefits and coverage

The scheme provides structured treatment support for accident victims across India. Victims receive cashless stabilization treatment for up to 24 hours in non-life-threatening cases and up to 48 hours in critical conditions. This ensures proper medical assessment and stabilization.

The scheme applies to all road categories, including highways, state roads, and rural roads. Digital authentication by police ensures proper identification and claim processing. This creates a transparent and accountable emergency care system.

Integration with digital emergency systems

The PM RAHAT Scheme is integrated with the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) 112 helpline, enabling quick ambulance access. Victims, bystanders, or Good Samaritans (Rah-Veer) can dial 112 to connect with emergency services.

The scheme also connects with the eDAR platform (Electronic Detailed Accident Report) and National Health Authority TMS 2.0 system. These digital platforms ensure seamless coordination between police, hospitals, and insurance providers. This reduces delays in treatment approval and reimbursement.

Static GK fact: ERSS 112 is a national emergency helpline integrating police, ambulance, and fire services.

Funding and reimbursement mechanism

The scheme is funded through the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (MVAF). If the accident involves an insured vehicle, reimbursement is provided by general insurance companies. In hit-and-run or uninsured cases, payments are made through government budget allocations.

Claims approved by the State Health Agency are settled within 10 days, ensuring financial certainty for hospitals. This encourages hospitals to prioritize emergency care without hesitation.

Governance and accountability

The scheme includes a strong grievance redressal mechanism. Complaints are handled by a Grievance Redressal Officer under the District Road Safety Committee, chaired by the District Collector or Magistrate. Police verification timelines are fixed at 24 hours for non-critical cases and 48 hours for critical cases.

This ensures accountability, transparency, and efficient implementation of emergency care services.

Static GK Tip: District Magistrates play a key role in implementing government welfare and safety schemes.

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PM RAHAT Scheme Strengthens Emergency Care for Road Accident Victims: