Islamabad – The federal government has restored and extended the Sehat Sahulat Programme (also known as the Prime Minister’s Health Card) for residents of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), and Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT). The scheme, which provides free medical treatment, will now run until June 30, 2027.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif officially launched the revived program on January 16, 2026, after the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) cleared Rs 40.188 billion in funding. This move brings back cashless healthcare for nearly 10 million people in these areas, following a suspension that lasted since March 2024.
Why This Matters for Remote Areas
The program targets families in mountainous and far-off regions where hospitals are few and medical costs can be high. Beneficiaries can get treatment for serious illnesses like cancer, heart problems, and accidents without paying upfront. Families use their CNIC to access services at over 640 approved government and private hospitals across Pakistan.
This extension helps low- and middle-income households avoid heavy medical bills. It also eases the load on local health budgets in AJK and GB, where geography makes regular care difficult.
Key Details of the Program
- Coverage: Free hospitalization for eligible treatments (up to Rs 1 million per family per year in many cases).
- Eligibility: All permanent residents of AJK, GB, and ICT, verified through NADRA records.
- Duration: Extended until June 30, 2027.
- Hospitals: More than 640 public and private facilities nationwide.
- Funding: Rs 40.188 billion approved for two years.
The scheme had been paused in these regions while it continued in provinces like Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The revival follows directives from the Prime Minister to ensure no gaps in healthcare access.
Official Statements
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the program reflects the government’s promise to treat healthcare as a basic right for every citizen. He added that the scheme will be monitored closely with help from local leaders in AJK and GB to make sure it works smoothly.
Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal noted that the restoration will provide free, cashless care to millions and help reduce financial stress from medical emergencies.
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What Comes Next
The government plans to add more hospitals to the network soon. Residents can check eligibility and apply through the official Sehat Sahulat Programme website or local health offices.
This step shows the federal government’s focus on supporting people in AJK and GB with reliable healthcare.
