Suraksha pays out nearly Rs 50m in claims
View(s):Since the commencement of Suraksha, the free Insurance scheme, for the 4.8 million student population in the country, claims totaling nearly Rs 50 million has been paid out, said an Ministry of Education (MoE) official.
The success of the programme has prompted authorities to increase the benefits, starting this year,” said Director (School Heath & Education) Renuka Peiris.
These will include reimbursing channeling fees for doctors at private hospitals, up to Rs 20,000 for a year, an increase in the annual limit per student for accidents benefits from Rs 100,000 to Rs 200,000. In the case of death of a parent, the payout increases from Rs 75,000 to Rs 200,000. Funeral expenses from Rs 150,000 will be paid for a student’s death. Payments for a permanent or partial disability due to accident or chronic illness will range from Rs 50,000 to Rs 200,000 according to the case. Additionally, a sum of Rs 200,000 or more has been included for critical or prolonged illness coverage.
The benefits will commence without a waiting period, using the Suraksha card or recommendation of the principal/authorized officers, and will have no sub limit. The MoE will also set up a contingency fund for students for unexpected events including awareness and preventive programmes.
(DW)