The central government has provided significant relief to Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). The scope of government financial assistance for the treatment of serious illnesses has been expanded. SC and ST families with annual incomes up to ₹5 lakh will now be able to benefit from this assistance.

Previously, this assistance was only available to Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) families with an annual income of up to ₹3 lakh. Financial assistance for heart, brain, and spine surgeries, as well as for cancer and other life-threatening diseases, has also been increased. The SC/ST community has been demanding this increase for several years. This decision was taken in view of upcoming elections in states like Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Punjab.

The Dr. Ambedkar Foundation, which operates under the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, has launched the Dr. Ambedkar Medical Assistance Scheme for the first time since 2018. This financial assistance is provided to families suffering from serious illnesses belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) categories. Hospitals covered under this scheme include AIIMS as well as all other government and CGHS-approved hospitals.

The money is transferred directly to the hospital's account. To avail this facility, SC and ST families must apply at least fifteen days before the surgery. When the scheme was revised in 2018, the eligibility criteria for financial assistance included an annual income of up to ₹2.5 lakh. The scheme provides assistance for heart, brain, and spine surgeries, kidney transplants, cancer, kidney surgery, dialysis, and other critical illnesses.

PC: Mint