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CentralHealth & Maternity

Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK)

Free delivery and free treatment for sick newborns in government hospitals

Government

Central Government

Who it’s for

Pregnant Women & Newborns

Application mode

Direct at Govt. health facility

Processing time

Immediate — benefits are availed directly at the point of care.

Deadline / renewal

Not applicable — available every time a woman delivers or a newborn needs care at a government facility.

What it provides

Free delivery (incl. C-section), free drugs, diagnostics, blood, diet and free transport for pregnant women and sick newborns in government facilities.

Benefits breakdown

DeliveryFree (incl. free C-section if medically required)At any government health facility
Drugs & consumablesFreeDuring delivery and postnatal stay
DiagnosticsFreeBlood tests, ultrasound etc. as required
DietFree (up to 3 days for normal delivery, 7 days for C-section)During hospital stay
TransportFree to-and-fro transportHome to facility, facility to facility (referral), and facility to home after discharge

Who’s eligible

All pregnant women delivering in public health institutions, and sick newborns up to 1 year.

Documents required

  • MCP card / pregnancy registration
  • Aadhaar card (helpful but not always mandatory for emergency care)

How to apply

In-person / offline

  1. Go directly to any government hospital/health centre for delivery or newborn care
  2. Inform hospital staff you wish to avail JSSK benefits
  3. Hospital provides free services and arranges free transport as part of the standard JSSK protocol — no separate form in most cases

Helpline

State NHM helplines — see nhm.gov.in

FAQs

Is this available at private hospitals?

No — JSSK benefits are specific to government (public sector) health institutions.

Is there any income criterion?

No — JSSK is universal for all pregnant women and newborns at government facilities, regardless of income.

Last verified 31 August 2026