The Himachal Pradesh Health Department has advised residents to register for Himcare cards by March 31, 2026, to ensure they receive full benefits under the state’s health insurance programme.
Under the Himcare scheme, families are eligible for free treatment up to Rs 5 lakh at any empanelled government hospital. Smart cards can be obtained at Lokmitra centres, cyber cafés, or online via www.hpsbys.in by uploading Aadhaar, ration card, mobile number, and category certificate, along with payment of the applicable premium.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Praveen Chaudhary stated that new card registrations will now be allowed only in March, June, September, and December each year. For the current cycle, registration is open from March 1 to March 31, 2026, with renewals also accepted until the same date. Each card will remain valid for one year.
Beneficiaries must pay the prescribed premium when submitting their documents at a Lok Mitra Kendra or Common Service Centre.
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Category 1: BPL families, MNREGA workers, and registered street vendors are eligible for the card free of cost.
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Category 2: Single women, persons with over 40% disability, daily wage earners, contract workers, part-time and outsourced employees can obtain the card for Rs 365.
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Category 3: Individuals not covered under the first two categories, who are not government employees, pensioners, or their dependents, can register by paying Rs 1,000 plus Rs 50 extra.
The Himcare scheme covers a wide spectrum of common and serious illnesses, including dialysis at registered private hospitals, in addition to government hospitals empanelled under the programme. Cardholders can also access treatment at PGI Chandigarh and AIIMS Bilaspur.
Dr. Chaudhary urged all eligible families to complete the registration process before the deadline to avoid difficulties in accessing medical care during emergencies.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
