The Indian government has announced a new initiative to provide free treatment to victims of road accidents. This plan has been launched on a pilot basis in Chandigarh and Assam. The information was shared in the Lok Sabha by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari.
Details of the Plan
According to Gadkari’s written reply in the Lok Sabha, the plan offers a health benefit package of up to ₹1.5 lakh for eligible victims, available at hospitals listed under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (ABPM-JAY). The treatment is covered for up to seven days from the date of the accident. The initiative is aimed at providing cashless treatment for victims of any motor vehicle accident.
Collaboration and Administration of the Free Treatment Scheme
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has collaborated with the National Health Authority (NHA) to develop this scheme. It operates under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, specifically Section 164B, and is administered by the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund as per the Central Motor Vehicles (Motor Vehicle Accident Fund) Rules, 2022.
Implementation and Coordination
The NHA is responsible for coordinating with local police, listed hospitals, state health agencies, the National Informatics Centre, and the General Insurance Council to implement the plan. Regardless of where the incident occurred, the program guarantees that victims of traffic accidents receive free medical care.
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Positive Takeaway
This initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing the support system for road accident victims, ensuring timely and accessible medical care.
