Odisha Govt Announces Financial Assistance to Children Who Lost Parents Due to COVID-19

GG News Bureau

Bhubaneswar, 25th March. The Odisha government announced on Friday that it is providing financial assistance to 50,952 children who have lost both or one of their parents because of COVID-19.

Women and Child Development Minister Basanti Hembram informed the assembly that 108 children have been identified as having lost both parents and will each receive Rs 2,500.

“These children are provided financial assistance under the government’s ‘Ashirbad’ scheme. The amount is deposited in the bank accounts of the beneficiaries or family members,” she said.

The children, who lost one parent (the breadwinner of the family) are paid ₹ 1,500 per month. Besides, orphans residing in a childcare institution are paid ₹ 1,000 per month, Hembram said.

The minister stated that the beneficiaries will receive financial assistance till they reach the age of 18.