Bihar State Journalist Insurance Scheme

Bihar State Journalist Insurance Scheme, 2014

The Bihar State Journalist Insurance Scheme, 2014 is an initiative launched by the Information and Public Relations Department (IPRD) of the Government of Bihar. This scheme is designed to offer financial protection and medical benefits to working media professionals in Bihar. It aims to safeguard journalists, offering them and their dependents insurance coverage, ensuring their well-being while they perform their duties.

Key Features of the Scheme:

• Insurance Coverage:
  The scheme provides coverage of up to ₹5,00,000 for both personal accidents and medical expenses for the insured media representatives and their dependents.
• Eligibility Criteria:
  To be eligible for the scheme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
  • The applicant must be a journalist/media representative.
  • Independent journalists must possess a valid press accreditation card.
  • The journalist must have a minimum of 5 years of work experience in the field of journalism.
  • The age of the media representative must be between 21 to 70 years.
  • The journalist must be residing and working in Bihar.
  • Educational qualification should be at least matriculation (10th grade) or equivalent.
  • The journalist should contribute at least 50% of their content through newspapers, magazines, news agencies, electronic media, or independent journalism with valid press accreditation.
  • The journalist’s spouse and up to two dependent children (sons up to 23 years of age, or 25 if studying; daughters until marriage) are included under the insurance scheme.
• Premium Contribution:
  Journalists contribute 20% of the insurance premium, while the remaining 80% is funded by the Government of Bihar.
• Validity:
  The insurance coverage is valid for a period of one year, with provisions for annual renewal.
• Exclusions:
  Maternity-related cases are not covered under the mediclaim policy of the scheme.

Benefits:

• Personal Accident Insurance:
  Provides coverage of up to ₹5,00,000 in case of accidents leading to injury or death.
• Medical Expense Coverage:
  Insures medical expenses for treatment up to ₹5,00,000 for the journalist and their dependents.

Application Process:

To apply for the Bihar State Journalist Insurance Scheme, follow these steps:

1. Download the Application Form:
   The application form can be downloaded from the official IPRD website.
2. Fill in the Form:
   Complete the form with all the required information and attach necessary documents (self-attested where required).
3. Submit the Application:
   Submit the filled and signed application along with the required documents to the District Public Relations Officer (DPRO).
4. Acknowledge Receipt:
   Request a receipt from the DPRO. Ensure that the receipt includes details such as the submission date, time, and a unique identification number (if applicable).

Claim Process:

In case of an accident or medical treatment, the claim process is straightforward:

1. Report the Incident:
   Claims must be reported to the insurance company and IPRD within seven days of the incident.
2. Submit Documents:
   Submit all required documents, including medical reports and accident details, to initiate the claim process.

Documents Required for Application:

Applicants need to submit the following documents along with their application:

1. Five passport-size photographs.
2. Appointment/affiliation letter issued by the editor/bureau chief.
3. Birth certificate (countersigned by editor/resident editor/employer/bureau chief).
4. Photocopy of the Registration Number of the media institution.
5. Other mediclaim policy documents (if applicable).
6. Proof of Media Organization Registration.
7. Work experience certificate (issued by the editor/resident editor/employer).
8. Press accreditation card issued by the Information and Public Relations Department, Government of Bihar.
9. Proof of circulation for media organizations (for print media).
10. Crossed/cancelled cheque (for ECS facility information, MICR, and IFSC code).
11. Premium contribution receipt.
12. Affidavit regarding criminal/civil matters.
13. Declaration of nominee.

Conclusion:

The Bihar State Journalist Insurance Scheme, 2014 is a significant step towards ensuring the safety and security of journalists working in Bihar. By providing substantial financial and medical support, this initiative helps safeguard journalists who are crucial in disseminating information and contributing to society. If you’re eligible, don’t miss the opportunity to apply and avail of this beneficial insurance scheme.