The Government of West Bengal today launched a Social Security Scheme for the tribal Kendu leaf collectors of Paschim Medinipore, Bankura and Purulia and their families.
Under the scheme which was announced by Chief Minister Ms Mamata Banerjee through a Facebook post, any tribal Kendu leaf collector between the age of 18 years and 60 years may apply for registration free of cost. Once registered, the applicant and his/her family would receive several social benefits under the scheme. This is expected to hugely benefit the Kendu leaf collectors and the tribals in the areas mentioned above.
The following is the Facebook post of Ms Mamata Banerjee:
Today, we have taken a decision to introduce a Social Security Scheme for the tribal Kendu leaf collectors of Paschim Medinipore, Bankura and Purulia and their families.
Under this Scheme, any tribal Kendu leaf collector between the age of 18 years and 60 years may apply for registration free of cost.
Upon registration, they will be entitled to the following financial assistance:
i) Lump sum amount on attaining 60 years – Rs.50000/- to Rs.150000;
ii) For accidental death (Rs.150000/-) and natural death (Rs. 50000/-);
iii) For partial disability (Rs.4000/-) or for permanent disability (Rs.25000/-), depending on the degree of disability;
iv) Medical assistance in case of surgeries – maximum Rs.4000/- per annum and maximum Rs.80000/- for a block of 4 years.
v) Maternity benefit upto two children – Rs.6000/- each time for maximum twice
vi) One time assistance for funeral expenses – Rs.3000/-.
This scheme will greatly benefit our tribal brothers and sisters.
I thought of sharing this information with all of you.