Lifesaving in the Golden Hour: Govt Launches Nationwide Cashless Treatment for Road Accident Victims

Image Source: India TV News

In a landmark move to boost emergency care and save lives, the Indian government has officially rolled out the Cashless Treatment of Road Accident Victims Scheme, 2025. Effective from May 5, this scheme ensures that anyone injured in a road accident involving a motor vehicle can access free, cashless medical treatment up to ₹1.5 lakh at any designated hospital across India, for up to seven days after the incident.

Key Highlights:

Universal Coverage: Any road accident victim-regardless of insurance status, age, or income-can avail cashless treatment at over 30,000 designated hospitals nationwide. Drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and bystanders are all eligible.
Golden Hour Focus: The scheme prioritizes immediate care during the critical “golden hour”-the first hour after trauma when prompt treatment can save lives and prevent severe injury.
No Upfront Payment: Victims do not need to pay or provide paperwork at the time of admission; hospitals will provide immediate care and claim reimbursement through the National Health Authority (NHA) portal.
Stabilization at Any Hospital: If a victim is taken to a non-designated hospital, initial stabilization will be provided, followed by transfer to a designated facility for further treatment.
Streamlined Implementation: The State Road Safety Council will coordinate locally, while a central steering committee will oversee the scheme’s rollout and monitor its impact.
Major Impact: With India recording 4.8 lakh road accidents and 1.72 lakh fatalities in 2023, timely medical care under this scheme is expected to significantly reduce preventable deaths.