With an aim to ensuring the well-being of pilgrims, the Uttarakhand Government’s Department of Health and Family Welfare has integrated the eSwasthya Dham portal with the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). Launched as a ‘Central Sector Scheme’ in September 2021, ABDM seeks to create an integrated digital health infrastructure across India.
The eSwasthya Dham portal, accessible at https://eswasthyadham.uk.gov.in/, plays a pivotal role in monitoring the health parameters of pilgrims undertaking the Char Dham Yatra. This annual pilgrimage attracts millions of devotees to the revered shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, collectively known as Char Dham.
One of the key features of the eSwasthya Dham portal is the generation of Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts (ABHA). Pilgrims can create their unique 14-digit ABHA number on the portal in just 1-2 minutes. This facility is crucial in light of the increasing number of pilgrims and the health risks associated with high altitudes, such as heart diseases, hypertension, respiratory issues, and diabetes.
The integration with ABDM ensures that pilgrims’ health records are managed digitally, establishing a trustworthy identity that facilitates immediate intervention during emergencies. With over 65 crore ABHA numbers already generated, this initiative highlights the government’s commitment to safeguarding the health of citizens.
ABHA offers numerous benefits, including the secure storage and management of health records. It allows individuals to share their health information with doctors anywhere and anytime, with their consent. This digital health ID helps in avoiding long queues at healthcare facilities, making doctor appointments more efficient and accessible.
To utilize the benefits of the eSwasthya Dham portal, pilgrims can log in at https://eswasthyadham.uk.gov.in/login. Additionally, a helpline number, 104, has been set up to assist pilgrims with any queries or issues they may encounter.
The Uttarakhand Government’s initiative through the eSwasthya Dham portal and its integration with ABDM exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to healthcare, ensuring a safer and smoother journey for all Char Dham Yatra pilgrims, especially senior citizens.
