Rs 50 lakh for Covid warriors if they die: Odisha CM

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday announced that Rs 50 lakh will be given for all health personnel (private and public) and members of all other support services who lose their precious lives in the fight against COVID-19.

“The state government in convergence with Government of India initiative will ensure that Rs.50 lakh is given for all health personnel(private and public) and members of  all other support services who lose their precious lives in the fight against COVID-19,” said the Chief Minister in a video message.

He said the state will treat them as Martyrs and provide State funeral with State Honors.

A detailed scheme of awards will be instituted recognizing their unparalleled sacrifice.These awards will be given on national days, he added.

Patnaik said the families of all government personnel (medical and others) will continue to receive full salary till the date of retirement.

With the rising attack on the health personnel across the country, he said strict criminal action will be taken against them including invoking the provisions of the National Security Act.

“Please remember that any act against them is an act against the State. In case anyone indulges in any act that will disturb or dishonor their work, very strict criminal action will be taken against them including invoking the provisions of the National Security Act. The 4 and half crore people of Odisha and the State stand solidly behind our Covid Warriors,” he added.