Health insurance scheme for poor : Nitish

Patna, Dec 25 (UNI) Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today announced the state government would soon launch health insurance scheme for the poor and underprivileged.

Talking to reporters here, Mr Kumar said a large number of people belonging to weaker sections, often complained about their inabilty to avail better medical treatment due to financial insolvency which prompted the state government to prepare health insurance schemes for them.

''During preliminary round of discussion on the issue, the Centre assured the state government to extend help in launching the health insurance scheme,'' he added.

'' The state government provides financial assistance for the treatment to people living below poverty line from the Chief Minister's Medical Relief Fund, '' Mr Kumar said adding those having annual income of less than Rs one lakh were also entitled to get assistance for treatment from the state government.

The Chief Minister said decision had been taken to increase the quantum of pension for freedom fighters from Rs 400 to Rs 2000, adding identity cards would be issued to families of freedom fighters which would help inculcate a spirit of patriotism among them.

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