Improving access to PM-JAY through a corporate social responsibility supported community intervention: a program evaluation from Western India

Project Sangaath is a corporate social responsibility (CSR)-supported initiative aimed at improving accessibility and utilization of government welfare schemes in underserved regions of Gujarat and Maharashtra, India. It acts as a bridge between communities and government systems by enhancing awareness, reducing barriers, and facilitating beneficiary linkage. Despite wide coverage of schemes such as Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY), utilization requires further strengthening. This study evaluates the effectiveness of Project Sangaath in improving access and utilization. The intervention included baseline household assessments, awareness campaigns, and facilitation support through trained local youth and village-level camps. A digital system was used for tracking applications and benefits. Data from program records were analyzed using descriptive statistics. A total of 40,641 households were successfully linked with PM-JAY through the intervention. The project facilitated a substantial cumulative sum assured exceeding ₹3000 crore, reflecting significant potential for financial protection. However, comprehensive tracking of utilization remains limited. Project Sangaath demonstrates the effectiveness of CSR-supported community-based interventions in significantly improving access and enrollment in government health schemes. While the intervention has created substantial potential for financial protection, further strengthening of awareness, beneficiary support, and health system responsiveness is needed to enhance utilization. The model offers a scalable approach for bridging gaps between communities and government services and advancing progress toward universal health coverage