Karnataka government cuts support for differently-abled by 80%
- In Reports
- 04:49 PM, Nov 29, 2024
- Myind Staff
The Karnataka government, led by Siddaramaiah, has reduced funding for differently-abled individuals by 80%. This significant budget cut compared to last year has come as a major shock to those relying on these funds.
The government has cut 80 per cent of the funds designated for Karnataka's disabled population. The department provides a total of 14 programs for the empowerment and support of people with disabilities, including equipment such as crutches, hearing aids, and braille kits. The Rs 53 crore in funding that was allotted last year has been reduced to Rs 10 crore for 2024–2025. Speaking out against this cut, the National Federation of the Blind has called it "unjustifiable and unprecedented."
The Congress government in Karnataka recently raised hospital fees by 10 to 15% for government facilities under the Bengaluru Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI). This includes well-known hospitals like Victoria, Minto, Vani Vilas, and various super-specialty hospitals. The state administration, led by Congress, published a notification outlining the revised charges that went into effect right away. One of the most significant modifications is the doubling of the outpatient department (OPD) registration fee from Rs 10 to Rs 20.
The charges for inpatient admissions have doubled, increasing from ₹25 to ₹50. Blood test fees have gone up from ₹70 to ₹120, while ward charges have also doubled from ₹25 to ₹50. The biggest hike is in hospital waste management charges, which have risen from ₹10 to ₹50.
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