From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Mar 8: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah launched the State Government’s ambitious "Santwana - Harish Scheme" to provide immediate and instant medical treatment as well as relief to victims of road accidents during the "Golden Hour."

The "Santwana" scheme was renamed "Santwana - Harish" scheme in honour of 23-year-old Harish Nanjappa who, in a heroic gesture, donated his eyes moments before he died in a horrific accident at Nelamangala last month.

Under the scheme launched by the Chief Minister in Bengaluru on Tuesday, financial aid up to Rs 25,000 would be provided by the State Government towards medical treatment during the first 48 hours.

The Santwana scheme provides immediate access to trauma care services to victims.

The scheme would cover the entire State irrespective of the victim’s nationality and the accident victim would receive medical treatment irrespective of his or her ability to pay.

The State Government assures a payment of up to Rs 25,000 per victim per episode.

The Chief Minister said a set of 25 treatment and ancillary packages have been developed from a minimum of Rs 1,000 to a maximum of Rs 25,000, inclusive of all the details, so as to give instant medical relief within the "Golden Hour.”

"The intention of the scheme is to save life and further refer for appropriate management," he said.

Services of "Ambulance 108” equipped with medical assistants, first aid kit, oxygen, drugs etc., will be made available for "on the spot” relief to the accident victim/victims and take them to the nearest recognised hospital for treatment.

The services of 104 and 108 helpline would be made available to get guidance regarding the appropriate recognised hospital.

The hospital shall get mapped on the GPS platform, Siddaramaiah explained.

Under the Scheme, the State Government has roped in Suvarna Arogya Suraksha Trust, a registered body under the Health and Family Welfare Department, to implement the scheme.