The announcement of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package Insurance Scheme was done on March 30, 2020. This scheme is for the Health Workers fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. The scheme was for a period of 90 days. However, there was a further extension for a period of 90 days. The scheme was extended until September 25, 2020.
Now, there has been another extension in the scheme. It is now extended for another 180 days (6 months).
This Central Sector Scheme provides an insurance cover of Rs. 50 lakhs to healthcare providers. This also includes community health workers. They are in direct contact and care of COVID-19 patients and therefore they are at high risk. The scheme also includes accidental loss of life on account of contracting COVID-19.
The scheme also covers private hospital staff, volunteers, local urban bodies, daily wages, and outsource staff. States, central and autonomous hospitals are also in the drafting of COVID-19 responsibilities.
The insurance under this scheme is over and above any other insurance cover of the beneficiary.
There is no age limit for this scheme and also there is no requirement of individual enrolment. The entire amount of premium for the scheme is being borne by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The benefit or claim under this policy is in addition to the amount payable under any other policies. The Ministry of Health and Welfare has collaborated with the New India Assurance (NIA) Company Limited. The insurance company will provide the insurance amount on the basis of the guidelines for the scheme.
To date, there was processing and payment of a total of 61 claims under the scheme. Also, a total of 156 claims are under examination by the New India Assurance (NIA) Company Limited.
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