Accident insurance for children from class 1 to 10; free treatment for first five days

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: There are some notable announcements for children in the last budget of the second Pinarayi government. Accident insurance has been announced for children from class 1 to 10. It is estimated that Rs 15 crore is needed for this annually. Finance Minister K N Balagopal said in his budget speech that this amount is being earmarked in the budget. Balagopal had told media this morning that children and adults will be considered equally in the budget.

Meantime, the finance minister also made a big announcement that free treatment will be provided for the first five days to those involving in road accidents. Balagopal announced a Life Saver scheme. This service will be available in government hospitals and selected private hospitals. Rs 15 crore has been allocated for this scheme. Health insurance has also been announced for families not included in the Karunya scheme. Rs 50 crore has been allocated for this.

In addition, degree education has been made free for students studying in Arts and Science colleges. Rs 10 crore has been announced to establish global schools. Pre-primary teachers' salaries increased by Rs 1000. Daily wages of school cooks increased by Rs 25. Monthly wages of Anganwadi workers increased by Rs 1000 and helpers by Rs 500.