Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi

New Delhi, Jan 8: The Central government will launch a modified scheme by March 2025 to provide cashless treatment for road accident victims across the country. Under the scheme, victims will be entitled to up to ?1.5 lakh per person for treatment, applicable to all motor vehicle accidents. The National Health Authority (NHA) will implement the program in coordination with hospitals, police, and state agencies.

Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari announced the program, which will be integrated with an IT platform combining the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways' e-Detailed Accident Report app and the NHA’s Transaction Management System. The treatment will be available for up to seven days from the accident date.

Gadkari also highlighted ongoing efforts to address driver fatigue, a major cause of fatal crashes, and the shortage of 22 lakh drivers in India. The government is reviewing labor laws to set working hours for commercial drivers.

In addition, Gadkari launched initiatives to set up Driver Training Institutes nationwide and improve e-rickshaw safety. The government is also focused on introducing Advanced Driver Assistance Systems for trucks and safety measures like vehicle tracking for women and children.