2024 · Paper III · 10 marks

Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) aims to provide digital health IDs for all Indian citizens to help hospitals, insurance firms and citizens access health records electronically when required. Discuss.

In short

ABDM, launched in 2021, builds a digital health ecosystem where a 14-digit ABHA number, provider registries and a consent-based Health Information Exchange let citizens, hospitals and insurers access records electronically. Over 78 crore ABHA accounts exist, but the digital divide, privacy risks and interoperability gaps persist.

Model answer

Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026

Introduction
The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission54321 (ABDM) launched in 2021 aims to unify India’s fragmented healthcare data through digital technology, supporting equitable and efficient health services.
Objectives and Components
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Integrated Digital Infrastructure

ABDM connects healthcare providers, patients, insurers, and policymakers via interoperable digital highways, issuing unique 14-digit ABHA numbers for health record portability.

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Comprehensive Registries and Services

Registries like Healthcare Professionals Registry and Health Facility Registry map resources, while platforms like Unified Health Interface enable teleconsultation and e-pharmacy.

Benefits and Impact
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Enhanced Access and Financial Protection

ABDM facilitates nationwide health record access, reduces redundant tests, and integrates with Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) for cashless treatment, aiding vulnerable populations including those in Telangana.

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Data-Driven Policy and Pandemic Response

Real-time analytics support policymaking and public health, exemplified by the eSanjeevani telemedicine platform during COVID-19.

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Digital Divide and Privacy Risks

Unequal digital literacy and infrastructure in rural and tribal areas of Telangana and elsewhere risk exclusion; the 2022 AIIMS data breach underscores cybersecurity vulnerabilities.

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Standardization and Ethical Concerns

Lack of uniform digital health standards complicates integration; AI use raises potential algorithmic bias issues.

Way Forward
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Infrastructure and Literacy Expansion

Enhance broadband and digital literacy in underserved regions.

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Robust Data Governance

Strengthen cybersecurity and enforce national standards for interoperability.

Conclusion
ABDM’s digital health framework can revolutionize healthcare delivery if equity, privacy, and standardization challenges are effectively addressed.

This model answer is indicative and the model can make mistakes; please verify key facts independently.

Hand-drawn diagram: How ABDM moves a health record. How ABDM moves a health record. Flow: Citizen creates 14-digit ABHA → Records linked across facilities → Consent Manager approves sharing → Doctors and insurers access records → Continuity of care, faster claims
Diagram: How ABDM moves a health record

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This chapter in the exam

Social policies and welfare programmes in India and Telangana3 questions

Asked in 1 of 2 sittings since 2016

2016
–
2024
3

Most tested: Contemporary welfare schemes and policy implementation, especially Centre-State scheme convergence.

Question from the official TGPSC Group-I Mains 2024 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.

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