Explained: What is the PM CARES scheme for children who lost parents to Covid? | Explained News,The Indian Express

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has released benefits under the PM CARES for Children scheme for children who were orphaned by the pandemic. What is this scheme, and who is eligible?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday released benefits like scholarships and health insurance under the PM CARES for Children scheme to support children who lost their parents due to coronavirus during the pandemic.

In February this year, a study in The Lancet had estimated the number of such children in India to be around 19 lakh. This was termed as “sophisticated trickery” by the Ministry for Women and Child Development (MoWCD), which said the number was close to 1.53 lakh.

PM CARES for Children was launched in May 2021 to ensure rehabilitation and education of children who lost caregivers to Covid between March 11, 2020, when Covid-19 was declared as a pandemic by the WHO, and February 28, 2022. The scheme applies to children who have lost both parents or a surviving parent or legal guardians/adoptive parents, to ensure their rehabilitation and education.

Funded by PM Cares and with MoWCD at its nodal agency in the Centre, the scheme will provide a monthly stipend to each child from the age of 18 years, and a lump sum amount of Rs 10 lakh on attaining the age of 23. The Prime Minister said the benefits also include an annual scholarship of Rs 20,000 for school students and monthly financial support of Rs 4,000 for daily needs.

Health coverage will be given through the Ayushman Card, and counselling through the Samvad helpline for psychological and emotional help.

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/pm-cares-scheme-orphans-covid-7948973/

---