Delhi Increases EWS Income Limit to ₹5 Lakh for Free Hospital Treatment
Delhi HC raises EWS income limit to ₹5 lakh for free treatment in government & select private hospitals.
The Delhi High Court has taken on record the Delhi government’s decision to enhance the annual income limit under the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) category for availing free hospital treatment from ₹2.20 lakh to ₹5 lakh. This step is expected to bring a large section of lower- and middle-income families under the ambit of subsidised healthcare in the capital.
A bench comprising Justice Prathiba M. Singh and Justice Manmeet P. S. Arora clarified that the revised income criterion will be applicable to all Delhi government hospitals. In addition, private hospitals constructed on land allotted by the government at concessional rates—where EWS norms are mandatory—will also be required to extend the benefit.
The court noted that any person seeking healthcare facilities in Delhi would now be eligible under the EWS category, provided they meet the necessary pre-conditions. The enhancement, the bench said, would ensure wider and more equitable access to critical medical services for economically vulnerable citizens.
Also Read: Tamil Nadu BJP Chief Accuses DMK Govt of Inhumane Treatment of Protesting Nurses
The decision follows a submission by the Delhi government that the competent authority had approved the revised threshold. The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) issued a formal order on January 2, 2025, implementing the change in compliance with earlier directions of the High Court.
Emphasising public awareness, the High Court directed the authorities to give adequate publicity to the revised EWS criteria so that eligible citizens are informed and can effectively avail the benefit. The court stressed that lack of awareness should not become a barrier to accessing healthcare.
The order was passed in a long-standing suo motu case initiated by the High Court in 2017, addressing systemic deficiencies in Delhi’s public healthcare system. The case has also led to oversight of reforms recommended by the Dr. S. K. Sarin Committee, including filling vacant posts, improving infrastructure, and strengthening critical care services across hospitals.
Also Read: Hyderabad Tragedy: Mother Pushes 7-Year-Old Daughter from Building, Girl Dies During Treatment
