THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The ex-gratia benefit to the heirs of the employees who died an unnatural or accidental death, and were not included in the life insurance scheme of the State Insurance Department, has been increased from Rs.1.5 lakh to Rs.10 lakh. The decision was taken in a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday.

The rule will come into effect from the date of promulgation. The cabinet has approved the general parameters of the scheme, including the provision of a broad definition of unnatural death to benefit more people. Financial assistance of up to five lakh rupees will be given to those who suffer permanent disability in the accident. Rs 4 lakh for disability above 60% and Rs 2.5 lakh for disability between 40 and 60%.

If employees assigned to the treatment of infectious diseases (epidemic and pandemic) die from the same disease, it will be considered an unnatural death. Accidental death while on the way to the office or while returning home from the office will count as unnatural death.

Assistance is available in case of death due to electrocution in the line of duty, accidents during construction activities, law enforcement efforts to apprehend criminals, rescue operations and wildlife attacks.