PM Cares Fund: Rs 346 Cr Used to Help Over 4,500 Kids Orphaned by Covid-19

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The PM CARES for Children Scheme started in 2021 has spent Rs 346 crore to support 4,543 children who lost their parents during the Covid-19 pandemic according to the latest report for 2022-23. The scheme launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 29, 2021 helps children who lost both parents a legal guardian adoptive parents or their surviving parent to Covid-19 between March 11, 2020 and May 5, 2023. It provides care health insurance, education and financial support to help these children build a stable future.

Children from 558 districts across 31 states have benefited with the highest numbers in Maharashtra (855), Uttar Pradesh (467), Madhya Pradesh (433), Tamil Nadu (426), and Andhra Pradesh (351).

Key Benefits of the Scheme:

Rs 10 lakh financial aid for each child when they turn 23.

Monthly stipend until they reach 18 years of age.

Boarding and lodging support to ensure rehabilitation.

School admission and scholarships: Rs 20,000 per year for students from Class 1 to 12.

Higher education support through educational loans.

Health insurance coverage of Rs 5 lakh per child.

The Covid-19 pandemic caused many children to lose both parents, affecting their education and emotional well-being. This scheme aims to give them a brighter and more secure future.

The Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) oversees the program, working with states, district administrations and other government departments to ensure its success.

This initiative highlights the government's effort to help vulnerable children during one of the most difficult periods in recent history.