Odisha Launches ‘Ashirbad’ Scheme For COVID Orphan Children

Bhubaneswar:  Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday launched the ‘Ashirbad’ scheme for the children orphaned  or lost single earning parent due to COVID-19.

As per the scheme, Rs 2500 per month will be given to the children who have lost both parents or single parent and Rs 1500 per month to those who have lost earning parent due to COVID-19.

The amount will be transferred to the bank accounts of the guardians of the orphans till they turn 18 years. However, the assistance will not be provided if the child is adopted by someone.

The children will get free medical benefits under the BijuSwasthya Kalyan Yojana. Children who need this special care will be included in the National or State Food Security Scheme. 

The state government will support the continuation of their education at their respective schools. Under the Green Scheme, the children will also be supported for their higher education.

The children and their caretakers will be entitled to avail pucca house under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana or Biju Pucca Ghar Yojana and benefits under other government schemes.

Children staying in a child care institution without a relative, will be given Rs 1000 per month which will be deposited in their bank account till they reach 18 years.

For children who have lost their earning parent, Rs 1500 per month will be transferred to the bank account of their surviving parent till they attain 18 years of age. 

If the child’s mother is eligible for Madhu Babu Pension Scheme, then they will be provided pension.

The district child protection units, Childline, block and panchayat level committees and frontline workers will identify such children and prepare a list. The guardians, caretakers can also approach district child protection units with death certificates to avail benefit under the scheme.