Karnataka Plans Healthcare Scheme for Retired Government Employees

The Story in Brief

Karnataka will soon launch the Sandhya Kirana Scheme, offering free medical treatment to retired government employees aged 60 to 70 and their family members. The Times of India reports that beneficiaries will contribute 1.25% of their pension, while eligible family members will contribute 0.75% of the family pension after an employee’s death. The state Cabinet has approved the scheme. Health Minister UT Khader also said Karnataka will deploy 100 bike ambulances for first aid and oxygen in congested cities. The state is procuring 450 ambulances, taking the planned fleet above 750, with response targets of 15 minutes in cities and 20 minutes in rural areas.

The Indian Opinion

The announcement addresses a real gap, since healthcare cover can weaken after retirement. But claims of free treatment should be judged against the contribution retirees must make and the scheme’s final rules. The bike ambulances may help at accident sites, yet they cannot replace timely transport to hospitals. The useful test will be whether Karnataka publishes enrolment details, funding rules and monthly response data, especially the promised 15-minute urban and 20-minute rural targets.

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com

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