ASIA/INDIA - Government set to guarantee health insurance for the poor and eliminate social inequality

New Delhi (Agenzia Fides) - The Indian government is working on a health insurance model for the poor, so that they do not have to bear the high cost of medical care.
After giving away the National Awards for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Singh said as a first step towards extending social security to workers in the micro and small enterprises (SMEs) sector, the Government will provide an old age pension to all citizens above the age of 65 and those living below the poverty line.
This was announced by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during a National Awards ceremony for Small and Medium Enterprises New Delhi. “This service, and a pension for all citizens over 65 and those live below the poverty line will guarantee a minimum of social security for everyone.”
Underlining the importance of SMEs, Dr Singh said “small and medium enterprises provide jobs for at least 41 million people in our country. This why they are important”.
“Our government sees the necessity to extend social assistance to workers in the sector of small and medium businesses ” the Prime Minister said. “I am convinced this sort of initiative will bring benefit to all involved in the sector ”.
Dr. Singh called on all enterprises in this sector to pay greater attention to quality, reduction of cost and to the welfare of their employees and workers. The Prime minister also emphasised the fact that his government is committed to removing inequality from society and to enabling every citizen to have the same impact for the growth of the country. (AP) (15/9/2007 Agenzia Fides; Righe:22; Parole:250)