India’s healthcare system is one of the largest in the world, serving over a billion people across urban and rural regions. At the core of this large system lie the government hospitals in India, which provide affordable and accessible treatment for millions. These hospitals are critical in ensuring that healthcare reaches every corner of the country, regardless of income or location. Government hospitals in India provide affordable healthcare and advanced treatment options for millions of patients. However, for additional expenses like medicines or specialized procedures, crowdfunding in India can help patients bridge the gap.

Unlike private hospitals, which can be expensive, Indian government hospitals aim to provide equal care to all. From basic patient consultations to life-saving surgeries and specialty treatments, they offer a wide range of free or subsidized services. This makes them important for the country’s public health goals. Even with subsidized treatment, some families may face financial challenges. Patients can raise money online to cover extra costs, ensuring timely access to surgeries, diagnostics, and medications.

As the need for quality healthcare continues to rise, understanding the structure, scale, and significance of government hospitals becomes essential. In this guide, we will explore how many government hospitals in India exist, their distribution, and a list of govt hospitals in India ranked based on their services, infrastructure, capacity, and more. We will also look at how the system works, from registration to treatment, challenges faced by public hospitals, and how ongoing reforms are shaping the future of healthcare in India. Trusted crowdfunding platforms allow patients to share their medical journey and reach donors who are willing to contribute toward treatment in government hospitals, making healthcare more accessible.

Click here to read about Best Government hospitals in Mumbai.

Read More: Benefits of Organ Donation: Criteria & Registration Process

Structure of the Indian Government Hospital System

https://www.impactguru.com/info/government-hospitals-in-india/Indian Government Hospital
A closeup shot of a South Asian female doctor checking up on a male child

The Indian government hospital system is organized into multiple levels, ensuring healthcare access for every citizen. This system is largely divided into Central, State, and Local hospital networks and operates across three levels of care: Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary. Additionally, various government medical colleges and healthcare schemes strengthen the public infrastructure. Here is a brief account of them:

Read More : How to Become a Kidney Transplant Donor In India?
Click Here to Find Best Hospitals Near You 

While treatment at government hospitals can significantly reduce medical costs, having a reliable health insurance plan through platforms like Carepal Secure ensures better financial protection during critical care.

A. Types of Government Hospitals in India

1. Central Government Hospitals

Central government hospitals, as the name suggests, are operated and funded by the central government. They are directly managed and operated by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, often offering highly specialized care and medical education. With increasing healthcare demands, crowdfunding India has emerged as a reliable support system for patients seeking affordable care and additional medical resources in government hospitals. 

Some of the examples of Central government hospitals in India are AIIMS (New Delhi and branches), Safdarjung Hospital, PGIMER Chandigarh,  and RML Hospital. Using a secure crowdfunding platform in India ensures transparency, faster fund transfers, and a wider donor reach, helping patients meet their healthcare needs effectively.

2. State Government Hospitals

The state health departments administer these hospitals. They form the bulk of public healthcare services, covering district, taluk, and specialty hospitals.

Examples of state government hospitals in India include Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital (Chennai), KEM Hospital (Maharashtra), and District General Hospitals.

3. Municipal or Local Body Hospitals

Local body hospitals are healthcare facilities managed by local bodies like municipal corporations or city councils. These hospitals serve densely populated urban areas and provide essential services at affordable costs.

Examples of municipal hospitals include Lokmanya Tilak Municipal General Hospital (Mumbai), Sion Hospital.

Read More: Liver Transplant Waiting List: Registration & Criteria

B. Levels of Care in Government Hospitals

1. Primary Healthcare

Primary healthcare is the first point of contact between individuals and the healthcare system, as it focuses on preventive, promotive, and basic curative services, especially in rural and underserved areas.

Facilities Provided:

    • Health education and awareness
    • Immunization programs
    • Maternal and child care
    • Family planning
    • Treatment of common illnesses

2. Secondary Healthcare

Secondary healthcare provides specialist care through district and sub-divisional hospitals and serves as a referral point from PHCs and CHCs. It bridges the gap between basic and super-specialty care. 

Facilities Provided:

    • Inpatient care and minor surgeries
    • Specialist consultations (pediatrics, OB-GYN, general medicine)
    • Emergency services

3. Tertiary Healthcare

Tertiary healthcare provides the highest level of medical treatment. It involves advanced treatment for complex illnesses and super-specialty services. Additionally, these institutions are often linked to teaching and research.

Facilities Provided:

    • Organ transplants, cancer treatment, and neurosurgery
    • Medical research and education

C. Government Medical Colleges and Teaching Hospitals

Government medical colleges and their attached hospitals play a dual role of providing high-quality medical education and delivering specialized healthcare services. These teaching hospitals are very important for training India’s next generation of doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals while also functioning as tertiary referral centers for complex and critical medical cases.

Examples of Government Teaching Hospitals in India:

    • AIIMS (Delhi and regional branches)
    • Madras Medical College
    • KEM Hospital (Mumbai)
    • Government Medical College, Kozhikode

These institutions play an important role in developing India’s healthcare workforce while delivering top care.

Read More: Guide to Body Parts Donation in India

Read More: Liver Transplant Donor Criteria: Complete Guide for India

D. Public Healthcare Schemes Supporting Government Hospitals

India’s public healthcare system is supported by several government-funded schemes that aim at ensuring health coverage, especially for the underprivileged. These schemes support government hospitals in delivering free or subsidized medical services. Here are some of them:

1. Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY)

PM-JAY was started in 2018 and is the world’s largest health assurance scheme, covering over 50 crore individuals. It provides cashless and paperless hospitalization for secondary and tertiary care. It offers coverage of up to Rs. 5 lakh per family per year.

2. Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS)

CGHS targets central government employees, pensioners, and their dependents. It offers access to dispensaries, wellness centers, polyclinics, and government referral hospitals. This scheme is available in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and is expanding gradually.

3. Employees’ State Insurance Scheme (ESI)

ESI is managed by ESIC and supports workers in the organized sector and their families. It is funded through employer and employee contributions. This scheme provides complete medical care, including hospitalization in ESIC or empaneled government hospitals.

4. Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi (RAN

RAN provides financial assistance for catastrophic diseases like cancer, kidney/liver transplants for families below the poverty line (BPL). Treatments under this scheme are offered at super-specialty government hospitals, including AIIMS and regional institutions.

5. State-Specific Health Schemes

Many Indian states have started their health protection schemes that integrate with or complement national programs: Aarogyasri (Telangana & Andhra Pradesh) offers free tertiary care for BPL families. Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jan Arogya Yojana (Maharashtra) covers surgeries and treatment for low-income groups. Karunya Health Scheme (Kerala) covers the cost of major treatments in public hospitals. Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (Odisha) offers cashless healthcare at state and central government hospitals.

Impact of These Schemes:

These schemes encourage the utilization of government hospitals over private ones. It reduces expenditure for poor and middle-income families. It also adds to the investments in infrastructure and digital health records in public health systems. Additionally, these schemes promote public-private partnerships (PPP) while strengthening the core government framework.

Click Here To Know More about Best Government Hospitals in India

1. All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi 

AIIMS, located in Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, is considered the best government hospital in India. It was started in 1956 and is known for offering top-quality medical care, education, and research. AIIMS is one of the most trusted hospitals in the country and is often listed among the Top 10 Government Hospitals in India.

This hospital is famous for its modern techn.ology, expert doctors, and wide range of treatments. From regular check-ups to serious surgeries, AIIMS handles it all. Many people from across India come here to get affordable and reliable healthcare

AIIMS stands out for its excellent care, making it the first on the list of government hospitals in India.

2. Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER)

PGIMER, located in Chandigarh, is one of the top government hospitals in India. It was started in 1962 and is well-known for its excellent medical education, research, and patient care. People from all over the country come here for high-quality and affordable treatment.

PGIMER offers a wide range of medical services and has expert doctors in many specialties. It is a trusted hospital for people looking for advanced healthcare and personalized treatment.

PGIMER is known for its dedicated service, expert care, and role in improving healthcare in India.

3. Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education & Research (JIPMER) 

JIPMER, based in Puducherry, is one of the most trusted government hospitals in India. It was established in 1964 and is known for offering excellent medical education and high-quality healthcare services. People from across the country visit JIPMER for specialized and affordable treatment.

With expert doctors and modern facilities, JIPMER provides care in many medical fields, making it a reliable hospital for patients with different health needs.

JIPMER continues to be a top choice for patients and medical students, thanks to its expert care and dedication to public health.

4. Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS) 

SGPGIMS is an Indian government hospital located on Raebareli Road in Lucknow. Started in 1983, it focuses on advanced medical education and offers expert healthcare in many specialties.

The hospital is famous for its excellent patient care and important medical research. SGPGIMS has special centers for different diseases, making it a popular choice for patients needing expert treatment.

SGPGIMS is trusted by many for its expert care, teaching, and dedication to improving health.

5. King Edward Memorial (KEM) Hospital, Mumbai 

King Edward Memorial (KEM) Hospital, located in Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, is one of the most respected government hospitals in India. Established in association with Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College (GSMC), this hospital has been serving patients since the early 20th century and continues to be a lifeline for many across the country.

KEM Hospital is known for offering a wide range of advanced healthcare services, not just to people in Mumbai but also to patients from across India and even abroad. Its dedicated team and infrastructure make it a trusted government medical institution.

KEM Hospital offers affordable, high-quality government healthcare to countless patients every day.

6. Tata Memorial Hospital 

Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH), located in Parel, Mumbai, is a premier government-run institution dedicated exclusively to cancer care. Established in 1941, TMH is widely regarded as one of India’s top government hospitals, especially for oncology services. With a legacy of excellence, it serves thousands of cancer patients every year with compassion and cutting-edge treatment.

TMH combines treatment, education, and research to provide a comprehensive approach to cancer management. It is a symbol of hope for patients from across the country and beyond, known for its affordability and quality of care.

Government Hospitals in India, Impact Guru
Figure: Government Hospitals In India 2025

FAQs

1.How many government hospitals in India exist?

As of recent data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India has over 23,581 government hospitals, including primary health centres (PHCs), community health centres (CHCs), district hospitals, and tertiary care institutions like AIIMS and state medical colleges. These hospitals serve urban, semi-urban, and rural populations across the country.

2.Are government hospitals free in India?

Yes, most government hospitals in India provide free healthcare services, especially for basic consultations, emergency treatment, and essential medicines. Advanced procedures or private room preferences may involve minimal charges. Additionally, schemes like Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) offer free treatment up to ₹5 lakhs annually for eligible families at many government hospitals.

3.What is the advantage of the government hospital in India?

Government hospitals in India offer several advantages, including affordable or free treatment for all sections of society, wide coverage, especially in rural and underserved areas. Availability of specialists in major hospitals, access to national health schemes like Ayushman Bharat, and tertiary care and teaching hospitals that offer advanced treatment and training

4.Which state in India has the best government hospital?

Delhi is often considered to have the best government hospitals, with AIIMS Delhi leading the list for its excellent infrastructure, medical research, and quality care. States like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka also have high-quality government hospitals such as KEM Hospital (Mumbai), RGGGH (Chennai), and Victoria Hospital (Bangalore), respectively.

5.What kinds of specialized services do government hospitals in India offer beyond basic medical care?

Government hospitals in India often provide a wide spectrum of care, ranging from primary services (like general consultations, immunizations and maternal‑child health) to secondary care (district/sub‑divisional hospitals for specialist consultations, surgeries, diagnostics) and even tertiary or super‑specialty treatments (such as organ transplants, advanced cancer treatment, neurosurgery, medical research and teaching) in major government institutions.