Sri Vijaya Puram, Sept 23: Chairman Mr. S. Tejeswara Rao (Teja) has urged the Union Ministers for Health & Family Welfare and Home Affairs to expedite the approval and publication of the amended Gazette Notification concerning health insurance eligibility for residents, eligible family members and unorganised workers of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
In a representation dated September 22, 2026, Rao referred to earlier communications submitted in March and July 2026 and stated that a communication had been received from the State Health Agency, Andaman & Nicobar Administration, through the Nodal Officer (AB-PMJAY), regarding eligibility under the existing health insurance scheme and the proposed enhancement of coverage.
According to the representation, the amended Gazette Notification relating to eligibility is currently under process. Upon its approval and publication, a substantial number of resident families and unorganised workers in the Islands are expected to become eligible for health insurance benefits.
Mr. Rao has therefore requested the Government of India to facilitate the expeditious approval and publication of the notification so that eligible beneficiaries can access the intended healthcare benefits without further delay.
The representation has also sought enhancement of the annual health insurance coverage from the existing ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh per family, citing the special geographical and healthcare circumstances of the Islands.
It has been stated that residents requiring specialised medical treatment frequently have to travel to mainland India, resulting in additional expenditure towards treatment, air or sea travel, accommodation and other related expenses.
The representation has further sought consideration of a special or Universal Health Insurance arrangement for eligible resident families, their eligible family members and unorganised workers of the Islands.
Among other requests, the Chairman has sought advance issuance of Ayushman/Health Insurance Cards to eligible beneficiaries, seamless cashless treatment and nationwide portability at empanelled hospitals, particularly for specialised treatment on the mainland, and simplification of referral and emergency treatment procedures for Island residents requiring urgent medical care outside the Union Territory.
It has been emphasised that the objective should not be limited to increasing the insurance coverage amount, but should also ensure timely, cashless and financially secure healthcare access for eligible beneficiaries, including when specialised treatment is required outside the Union Territory.
Mr. Rao has requested the Union Ministers to examine the matter at the appropriate level and issue necessary directions for further action. Coordination with the Lieutenant Governor and the Andaman & Nicobar Administration has also been sought for necessary follow-up at the Union Territory level.
The representation stated that the proposed measures would provide greater health security and financial protection to eligible resident families, their family members and unorganised workers of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
