Ranchi, May 6: In a landmark initiative, the Jharkhand government has launched the country’s first health insurance scheme exclusively for advocates and their dependents. Rolled out under the existing Rajyakarmi Swasthya Beema Yojana, the scheme marks a historic extension of healthcare benefits to the legal fraternity.
Chief Minister Hemant Soren inaugurated the scheme during a state-level event held at the Harivansh Tana Bhagat Indoor Stadium in Khelgaon, Ranchi. Calling the launch “historic,” Soren emphasized the government's commitment to supporting the welfare of advocates, stating, “This scheme is a step towards ensuring dignity and security for our respected legal professionals. The government is committed to sharing the healthcare responsibilities of this vital segment of society.”
The initiative reflects the state’s broader efforts to reduce the financial burden of healthcare on professionals engaged in public service.
The comprehensive insurance coverage includes provisions for health, life, and accidental insurance. It ensures that advocates and their families can access hospitalisation and medical care without financial distress.
In addition, life insurance offers financial support to dependents in case of an untimely demise, while accidental insurance provides compensation for injuries or fatalities resulting from accidents — a relevant inclusion given the often demanding and travel-intensive nature of legal work.
Eligibility is restricted to practicing advocates registered with a state bar council. The government is expected to subsidise or fully cover the premium costs, depending on specific criteria. Some versions of the scheme may also offer maternity benefits, critical illness coverage, and educational scholarships for children of legal professionals.
With this pioneering move, Jharkhand has set a precedent for other states to consider similar welfare measures for the legal community.
