Rs 110 crore distributed under `Karunya' scheme

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government proposed to extend the 'Karunya' benevolent scheme to more hospitals in the state to help patients suffering from chronic ailments, Finance Minister K M Mani said here today.

A sum of Rs 110 crore had already been distributed under the scheme for treatment of cancer patients and those suffering from renal diseases, he said addressing a seminar organised by the Kesari Memorial Journalists Trust here.

He said patients with lunatic disorders, sickle cell anemia and thalassemia would be brought under the cover of the scheme, the fund for which is collected from the the state government's 'Karunya' lottery.

An insurance scheme would also be launched with free premium for patients with chronic diseases to enable them to get continued treatment.

New dialysis units would be set up in 27 taluk hospitals at a cost of Rs 37.5 crore. Two private hospitals in each taluk would also be accredited to carry out dialysis under the scheme, the minister said.