Gujarat Government Allocates Rs 3.39 Crore for Silicosis Victims' Families Over 10 Years
Synopsis
The Gujarat government has disbursed Rs 3.39 crore over the past decade to support families of silicosis victims. With increased assistance this financial year, the initiative highlights the state's commitment to worker welfare and health support.
Key Takeaways
The Gujarat government allocated Rs 3.39 crore over the last decade for silicosis victims' families.
In the current financial year, there has been a notable increase in disbursement.
Financial support includes Rs 4 lakh for heirs and Rs 3 lakh for affected individuals.
Healthcare services for silicosis are provided free at government facilities.
Applications for assistance can be made online via the Board’s website.
Gandhinagar, March 20 (NationPress) The government of Gujarat has allocated a total of Rs 3.39 crore in financial aid over the last ten years to the families of workers who succumbed to silicosis. Notably, there has been an increase in disbursement this current financial year, as reported by officials on Friday.
This financial support is part of a comprehensive initiative aimed at assisting workers in the unorganised sector and self-employed individuals involved in agate, stone, and construction industries, all of whom are vulnerable to this occupational disease.
According to the scheme, beneficiaries who are heirs of workers who have passed away due to silicosis can receive Rs 4 lakh, while those diagnosed with the disease are eligible for Rs 3 lakh in financial assistance.
Through the Gujarat Rural Workers Welfare Board (GRWWB), an impressive Rs 1.82 crore has been disbursed to 48 beneficiaries in the year 2025–26, marking a record annual distribution compared to prior years.
Over the span of the last decade, 205 heirs of deceased workers have benefitted from this financial aid, totaling Rs 3.39 crore.
Additionally, as part of a broader framework for support, diagnostic and treatment services for silicosis are being offered at no cost in all government hospitals and GMERS (Gujarat Medical Education and Research Society) medical colleges across the state, facilitated by the Health Commissioner’s office.
Eligible workers and self-employed individuals are welcome to apply for this assistance by downloading the required form from the Board’s official website.
Statements made by state ministers regarding the recent budget highlight that worker welfare, especially for those affected by silicosis, continues to be a priority within the state's policy focus.
The state administration is committed to “enhancing skill development among the youth and ensuring comprehensive welfare for workers” through increased allocations and various schemes.
In a separate address, Labour Minister Kunvarji Bavaliya underscored during the Assembly’s budgetary discussions that the state’s budget is “dedicated to the social security and welfare of workers,” emphasizing the importance of healthcare access and financial assistance for occupational diseases like silicosis.
Point of View
This initiative by the Gujarat government reflects a significant commitment to the welfare of workers in high-risk industries. The financial assistance and healthcare provisions for silicosis victims and their families demonstrate an essential focus on occupational health and support for vulnerable populations.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How much financial assistance is available for victims' families?
Families of workers who have died due to silicosis are eligible for Rs 4 lakh, while affected individuals can receive Rs 3 lakh.
How can one apply for this financial assistance?
Eligible workers and self-employed persons can download the application form from the Gujarat Rural Workers Welfare Board's official website.
What services are provided for silicosis patients?
Diagnostic and treatment services for silicosis are available free of charge at all government hospitals and GMERS medical colleges in Gujarat.
What recent measures have been taken for worker welfare in Gujarat?
The state government has emphasized enhancing skill development for youth and ensuring comprehensive worker welfare through various schemes and increased financial allocations.
