The Chhattisgarh government has initiated the ‘Patrakar Kalyan Kosh’ scheme, a significant step to support media personnel and their families during the COVID-19 pandemic. This scheme is designed to provide financial assistance to the bereaved families of journalists who have succumbed to COVID-19, as well as to increase the financial support for those in the media fraternity requiring treatment for the virus.
Overview of the Patrakar Kalyan Kosh Scheme
The ‘Patrakar Kalyan Kosh’ scheme is a welfare initiative launched by the Chhattisgarh government with the specific intent of providing aid to journalists affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing the vital role played by media personnel in delivering news and keeping the public informed, especially during a health crisis, this scheme serves as a safety net for those who have faced personal losses due to the pandemic.
Financial Assistance for Bereaved Families
One of the key components of the scheme is the financial relief provided to families who have lost a member working in the media industry to COVID-19. The government has allocated more than Rs.90 lakh for this purpose, demonstrating a commitment to support these families through their challenging times. This sum will be distributed among the eligible families, offering them a degree of financial stability in the absence of their loved ones.
Increased Aid for COVID-19 Treatment
Understanding the financial burden that can come with medical treatment, the Chhattisgarh government has also made provisions to enhance the financial assistance for journalists undergoing COVID-19 treatment. Under the ‘Patrakar Kalyan Kosh’ scheme, the amount allocated for this purpose has been increased from Rs.50,000 to Rs.2 lakh. This substantial increase is aimed at ensuring that journalists do not face financial constraints while seeking necessary healthcare services.
Support for Senior Journalists
In addition to helping the families of deceased journalists and those requiring treatment, the scheme also pays attention to the senior members of the media community. The state government recognizes the contributions of veteran journalists and has thus decided to double the monthly pension for senior journalists under the ‘Senior Journalist Samman Nidhi’. This increase from Rs.5,000 to Rs.10,000 per month is a gesture of respect and gratitude towards senior journalists for their years of service to the field of journalism.
Eligibility and Application Process
To avail the benefits of the ‘Patrakar Kalyan Kosh’ scheme, eligible journalists or their families must meet certain criteria set by the government. The specifics of these eligibility requirements and the application process are typically outlined in official government releases or through the respective departments tasked with the implementation of the scheme. It is important for applicants to provide the necessary documentation and adhere to the guidelines to ensure a smooth and timely receipt of the assistance.
Impact on the Journalism Community
The ‘Patrakar Kalyan Kosh’ scheme is expected to have a positive impact on the journalism community in Chhattisgarh. By providing financial aid and increasing pension benefits, the government is taking concrete steps to alleviate some of the hardships faced by media personnel and their families during the pandemic. This support not only helps those directly affected but also sends a message of solidarity to the entire journalism sector, acknowledging their hard work and dedication in these unprecedented times.
