The government has started a countrywide scheme that gives free treatment (up to Rs 1.5 lakh) to people injured in road accidents. This treatment will be available at selected hospitals within seven days of the accident. According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, anyone hurt in a road accident involving a motor vehicle, no matter who they are or where they're from can get this cashless treatment.
Victims of road accidents can now get free treatment worth up to Rs 1.5 lakh at selected hospitals for up to seven days after the accident. If someone goes to a hospital that isn’t part of the scheme, only basic treatment to stabilize the patient will be provided, as per the scheme’s rules.
The National Health Authority (NHA) will run this scheme, working closely with the police, hospitals, and State Health Agencies. In each state and Union Territory, the State Road Safety Council will manage the scheme locally. They will help onboard hospitals, handle victim treatment, manage payments, and oversee everything through a special online portal.
The central government will also form a steering committee to make sure the scheme runs smoothly across the country. This nationwide program follows a pilot project that began on March 14, 2024, offering cashless treatment to road accident victims.
Earlier this year, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari also announced a fivefold increase in the reward amount for Good Samaritans who help road accident victims. The reward has been raised from Rs 5,000 to Rs 25,000 as part of efforts to encourage people to assist injured persons without fear or hesitation. This move aims to promote a culture of timely help and save more lives on roads by recognizing the efforts of those who step forward to provide immediate assistance.
You might also be interested in - Nitin Gadkari announces ₹25,000 reward for helping accident victims