Jain bodies push Covid insurance cover in community

Nagpur: Perturbed by the plight of Covid-19 patients in the community, Jain organizations have come forward to get them insurance cover.

After creating awareness to get rid of coronavirus and bailing out community members out of trauma by providing them all help like Jain food, medical aid, free counseling and help in getting hospitalbeds, two major Jain organizations have tied up with companies to bring families under the Covid-19 insurance cover.

A proposal has been mooted by Manindra Jain, national president of Digamber Jain Mahasamiti, the parent body of Digamber Jains, in the country having presence in 15 states. Another proposal is being worked out by the Jain International Trade Organization (JITO) to cover at least 700 members.

Sachin Kothari, project director of insurance scheme, said, “JITO has launched ‘corona insurance week’ from September 20-26. We have earmarked Rs 3.5 lakh to help the beneficiaries. It will cover at least 700 members in the age group of 18-65 for 6.5 months with a cover of Rs 1.5 lakh offering 33% discount. Those in 18-25 age group will have to pay a premium of Rs 650; 26-50 age group will have to pay Rs 850, and for 51-65 years group, it will be Rs 1,500. For details, community members can contact Phones 6399959995 & 8208892038.”

Richa Jain, national vice-president, Mahasamiti, said, “The motive is purely social welfare considering the plight of people. We observed that getting beds and other healthcare in government hospitals is difficult. Besides, treatment in private hospitals is beyond reach of many. Hence, we are convincing members to come forward to get at least a cover of Rs5 lakh under which cashless treatment will be given.”

“We have a target of 1,000 policies in the country. Of these, 600 have already applied with more number of Jains from Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi coming forward. In Maharashtra, it is picking up now. The last date for registering with Mahasamiti is September 25. The company is charging Rs24,000 annually for a cover of Rs5 lakh but it may vary depending on the age,” said Sunil Jain, state president.

“The best part is that apart from Covid-19, other diseases are also covered and dependent parents up to 85 years can also avail the benefit without any medical check-up,” said Mahendra Pendhari, in-charge of the project in Vidarbha.

Source: The Times of India