Launched under the Himachal Pradesh Journalists Welfare Fund Scheme in 2006 by the Director of the Information and Public Relations Department, Government of Himachal Pradesh—and later updated under the new H.P. Patrakar Kalyan Yojana, 2017—the scheme provides financial assistance to serving and retired accredited journalists facing adverse situations such as accidents, illness, or untoward violence. It aims to secure the financial well-being of journalists and their families during critical times.
Benefits
- Comprehensive Coverage: Different benefit amounts are provided based on the nature of the incident—ranging from medical emergencies to fatal accidents.
- Targeted Support: Both serving and retired journalists are supported, ensuring assistance during active service as well as after retirement.
- Emergency Assistance: Immediate support of ₹25,000 is available in adverse situations upon verification of necessary documents.
- Enhanced Financial Security: The scheme aims to mitigate the economic impact of unforeseen events on journalists and their families.
Eligibility
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For Death Benefits:
- The deceased must have been an accredited journalist (editor, sub-editor, reporter, photographer, or proofreader) working full-time in Himachal Pradesh.
- For serving journalists, the death must occur while performing field duties.
- In cases of sudden death due to accident, illness, or violence, appropriate service conditions and minimum years of service (where applicable) must be met.
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For Medical Emergency or Other Assistance:
- Applicable to both serving and retired accredited journalists.
- The family (legal heirs, spouse, dependents) is eligible to receive benefits upon presentation of requisite documentation.
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Additional Conditions:
- Retired accredited journalists must have served for at least twenty years and not have taken any other gainful employment apart from journalism.
- The retired journalist’s age should be 58 years.
- Legal heirs (spouse, dependent children) of the deceased are eligible.
- Journalists already subscribed to the previous scheme (Himachal Pradesh Journalists Welfare Fund Scheme, 2006) are now considered members under the new H.P. Patrakar Kalyan Yojana, 2017.
Application Process (Offline)
- Download the Application Form:
- Eligible applicants can download Form-I from the official website.
- Complete the Form:
- Fill in all mandatory fields and attach self-attested copies of the required documents.
- Submission:
- Submit the duly filled and signed application form along with the documents at the appropriate level—State, District, or Sub-divisional—for serving accredited journalists, or to the designated office for retired journalists.
- Obtain Acknowledgment:
- Request a receipt or acknowledgment from the Director (I&PR) or the District Public Relations Officer. The acknowledgment should contain essential details such as the date and time of submission and a unique identification number (if applicable).
Documents Required
- Proof of Identity/Certificate: (Aadhaar/Voter ID/PAN/Ration card, as applicable)
- Income Certificate: Issued by the Tehsildar (Class-I) or Sub Divisional Magistrate.
- Death Certificate: In cases of death benefit claims.
- Medical Certificate: For claims related to medical emergencies or major illnesses.
- Other Supporting Documents: Any additional documents as required by the guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When did the scheme come into effect?
A1: The scheme was originally launched in 2006 and has been updated under the new H.P. Patrakar Kalyan Yojana, 2017.
Q2: What is the purpose of this scheme?
A2: The scheme aims to provide financial assistance to both serving and retired accredited journalists in adverse situations—such as accidents, death, or severe medical emergencies—to ensure their financial security and support their families.
Q3: Who is eligible to apply under this scheme?
A3: Eligibility extends to serving accredited journalists and retired accredited journalists (and their legal heirs or dependents) working in Himachal Pradesh who meet the service and employment conditions outlined in the scheme.
Q4: Who administers the Himachal Pradesh Patrakar Kalyan Yojana?
A4: The scheme is administered by the Director of the Information and Public Relations Department, Government of Himachal Pradesh, under the Himachal Pradesh Journalists Welfare Fund Scheme/ H.P. Patrakar Kalyan Yojana.
Q5: What is the composition of the Committee administering the scheme?
A5: Specific details on the committee composition are provided in the official guidelines, typically involving senior government officials and representatives from journalist associations.
Q6: How much immediate financial assistance can be provided in emergencies?
A6: An immediate assistance of ₹25,000 is available for emergencies upon submission of documentary proof, subject to later committee approval.
Q7: What is the procedure for applying for financial assistance?
A7: Applications are submitted offline by downloading the application form from the official website, completing it with the required documents, and submitting it to the appropriate authority (State Director or District Public Relations Officer).
Q8: How is the Patrakar Kalyan Fund audited?
A8: Auditing procedures are conducted by designated government auditors as per the guidelines provided in the scheme’s official documentation.
Q9: Can the scheme be amended?
A9: Yes, the scheme may be amended as per government policies and notifications.
Q10: How often is the financial assistance reviewed and approved?
A10: Review and approval frequency for financial assistance is conducted as per the internal procedures of the administering committee, typically on a case-by-case basis following application submission.
Q11: What support is available for medical emergencies?
A11: For medical emergencies or severe illnesses like cancer, up to ₹50,000 is provided based on emergent need, subject to verification and approval by the committee.