The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) has become a lifeline for millions of underprivileged citizens across India. The Ayushman Card, or the Ayushman Bharat Golden Card, allows eligible individuals to avail of cashless healthcare services in empaneled hospitals across the country. However, during peak hours, users often face challenges such as website slowdowns, OTP delays, and login issues while attempting to download their card. Understanding how to navigate these hurdles effectively can help ensure a smoother experience.
Understanding the Challenges During Peak Times
One of the primary reasons users face difficulty downloading the Ayushman Card during peak hours is server congestion. The official portals like https://beneficiary.nha.gov.in or https://bis.pmjay.gov.in often experience high traffic volumes during the day, especially when new batches of cards are approved or during awareness drives. Slow server response, delayed OTP messages, and occasional timeouts are common issues that can disrupt the process.
Choose the Right Time for Accessing the Portal
To minimize the chances of delays or errors, it’s best to avoid downloading the card during regular working hours when traffic is typically high. Early mornings or late evenings tend to be less crowded. Logging in during these quieter times improves the likelihood of a faster and more responsive experience on the PMJAY websites. A stable internet connection during off-peak times also plays a crucial role in avoiding mid-process interruptions.
Keep Required Information Ready Before You Start
Having all the necessary details ready in advance can significantly reduce the time taken to complete the download process. Before you begin, make sure your mobile number is registered with the scheme and is accessible. Keep your Aadhaar number, Family ID, or PMJAY ID handy depending on your method of login. This preparation reduces the chances of session expiration due to inactivity and ensures a seamless flow from login to download.
Ensure Accurate Captcha Entry and OTP Verification
Captcha entries are case-sensitive and often the reason users are locked out or delayed while trying to log in. Carefully enter the captcha as displayed on the screen. If you make a mistake, refresh the captcha instead of repeatedly submitting incorrect information. For OTP verification, ensure your mobile network is stable and that your SMS inbox is not full, as this could delay receipt of the OTP. If you do not receive the OTP within a few minutes, waiting for a while and retrying during a non-peak time is usually effective.
Use Alternative Platforms Like DigiLocker
In times of heavy load on the main Ayushman Bharat portal, turning to alternate platforms such as DigiLocker can be an excellent backup option. DigiLocker allows registered users to access a wide range of government-issued documents, including the Ayushman Bharat card. Once logged in, a few simple steps can help you retrieve your PMJAY document. Since DigiLocker operates independently from the PMJAY portal, it often remains functional even during periods of heavy traffic on the main site.
Keep Your Browser Updated and Clear Cache Regularly
Technical hiccups often arise from using outdated browsers or systems that store old cookies and cache. Updating your browser to the latest version ensures compatibility with the PMJAY portal. Additionally, clearing your cache and cookies before starting the process helps avoid loading issues and ensures the website loads fresh content without errors.
Avoid Using Public or Shared Devices
For security and performance reasons, try to use a personal device for downloading the Ayushman Card. Public or shared systems may have restrictions, slower connections, or security settings that interfere with the download process. A personal device not only ensures privacy but also allows better control over the system performance and internet speed.
Seek Help from Nearby Common Service Centres (CSCs)
If the download process continues to be difficult during peak hours, consider visiting a nearby Common Service Centre (CSC). These centers are authorized to assist beneficiaries with Ayushman Bharat services. Staff at these centers can access the portal on your behalf and help you obtain the Ayushman Card without the typical delays you might face at home. CSCs are particularly helpful for people with limited digital literacy or access.
Verify Mobile Number and Scheme Details Before Trying Again
One of the most frequent issues occurs when the user tries to log in using an unlinked or incorrect mobile number. Ensure that your mobile number is linked with your Aadhaar and PMJAY records. If there’s any mismatch, your card status may not be visible, or OTPs may not be received. In such cases, it is advisable to contact PMJAY support or visit a CSC for mobile number updates before attempting the download again.