SHILLONG/NONGPOH/KHLIEHRIAT/JOWAI, May 30: In convergence with the release of benefits under PM CARES for Children scheme, which aims to lend a helping hand to children orphaned due to COVID, as many as 11 children from the state have received the benefits under the scheme at separate functions held across different district, on Monday.
Out of the 11 children, four are from East Khasi Hills, two Ri Bhoi, three East Jaintia Hills and two from West Jaintia Hills.
As per the scheme, the children were handed over key scheme documents which include a letter from the Prime Minister, Sneh Patra (Certificate of PM CARES), PM CARES for Children passbooks, and a health card of Ayushman Bharat — Pradhan Mantri-Jan Arogya Yojana.
These children were identified and registered by the respective district administrations along with the District Child Protection Units as beneficiaries of the PM Cares for Children scheme.
The scheme aims to ensure comprehensive care and protection for children who have lost their parent(s) to COVID-19 pandemic, in a sustained manner, enable their well-being through health insurance, empower them through education and equip them for self-sufficient existence with financial support of Rs 10 lakh on attaining 23 years of age.
Under the Ayushman Health Cards, children can avail free facility of treatment up to Rs 5 lakh.