Central government launched PM Rahat (PM-RAHAT) scheme, road accident victims will get free treatment immediately.

Tezzbuzz Desk- The Central Government has launched an ambitious scheme ‘PM Rahat’ (PM-RAHAT), which aims to provide prompt and life-saving medical care to road accident victims without any cash payment. The main goal of this scheme is that the financial condition of any person injured in an accident does not become a hindrance in their treatment and they get the necessary treatment during the “Golden Hour”.

Main features of the scheme

Financial assistance for all accident victims
A person registered under the scheme will get the benefit of treatment up to ₹1.5 lakh for seven days after a road accident.

If the condition of the injured is not life-threatening, first aid will be provided for 24 hours.

In serious situations, this period can be extended up to 48 hours after digital verification.

Integration with IRSS 112 for emergency help
PM-RAHAT scheme has been linked with Emergency Process Support System (IRSS) 112.

Anyone present at the accident site can dial 112 to get information about nearby hospitals and ambulances.

This will lead to better coordination between police, emergency personnel and hospitals and medical care will reach the victim faster.

Provision for payment of treatment

The hospitals will be paid through the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (MVAF).

If the vehicle is insured, payment will be made from the insurance company’s contribution.

In cases of uninsured vehicles or hit-and-run incidents, the government will bear the cost from its budgetary allocation.

Approved claims will be settled by the state health agency within 10 days.

Grievance Redressal and Accountability
A designated officer will be deployed for this scheme in all the districts of the country, who will ensure resolution of complaints through the District Road Safety Committee. The committee will be headed by the District Collector or equivalent authority.

Every year lakhs of people get injured or die in road accidents in India. According to studies, if an accident victim gets hospital treatment within the golden hour, almost half of the deaths can be avoided.

PM-RAHAT scheme will not only help in saving lives but will also improve coordination between emergency services and health centres. This step can prove to be a milestone in the field of road safety and quick medical facilities.