Bihar State Journalist Insurance Scheme

Description
The "Bihar State Journalist Insurance Scheme, 2014" was launched by the Information and Public Relations Department, Government of Bihar. The scheme aims to provide financial benefits of ₹5,00,000/- & facilities under a group mediclaim & personal accident insurance scheme to working media representatives. Under this scheme, spouse and two dependent children of the media representative will be included in this Insurance Scheme. Insurance Period: This insurance is valid for one year with provisions for annual renewal.

Exclusions
• The maternity related cases are not covered under mediclaim policy of this insurance scheme.

Benefits
• Personal accident insurance coverage up to ₹5,00,000/-
• Medical expense coverage up to ₹5,00,000/- for the insured and their dependents.
• NOTE: Media representatives contribute 20% of the premium, while the remaining 80% is covered by the government.

Eligibility Criteria
1. The applicant should be a journalist/media representative.
2. Independent journalists must hold a valid press accreditation card.
3. The applicant should have a minimum of 5 years of work experience in journalism.
4. The media representative's age is between 21-70 years.
5. The media representative should be residing and working in Bihar.
6. The media representative educational qualification should be matriculation or equivalent for the insurance.
7. The media representative should cover 50% of news or comments in journalists from newspapers, magazines, news agencies, electronic media, and independent journalists with valid press accreditation.
8. The media representative's spouse and two dependent children are included in this Insurance Scheme.
9. The media representative's son's age is up to 23 years (or 25 if studying any bonafide institutions), and the daughter will be covered until marriage.
10. A media representative affiliated with a private news channel must ensure that the channel's telecast reaches at least 20 districts in the state.

Required Documents
• Five Passport-size Photograph.
• Appointment/Affiliation letter (issued by editor/ bureau chief in favour of media representative salaried, full-time/part-time).
• Birth Certificate (Countersigned by editor/ resident editor/employer/ Bureau Chief).
• Photocopy of Registration Number of the Institution.
• Other Mediclaim Policy Document (if taken).
• Proof of Media Organization Registration.
• Work Experience Certificate (issued by editor/resident editor/employer/ Bureau Chief).
• Press Accreditation Card (issued by Information and Public Relations Department, Government of Bihar).
• Proof of Circulation for Media Organizations.
• Crossed/Cancelled Cheque (for the information of ECS facility, MICR and IFSC code).
• Premium Contribution Receipt.
• Affidavit regarding Criminal/Civil matters.
• Declaration of Nominee.

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What benefits are provided under the scheme?
A: Personal accident insurance up to [?]5 lakhs and medical expense coverage up to [?]5 lakhs for the insured and dependents.

Q: What is the contribution ratio for the premium?
A: The government covers 80% of the premium, while the media representative contributes 20%.

Q: How long is the insurance valid?
A: The insurance is valid for one year with an option for annual renewal.

Q: What is the age limit for dependent children?
A: Sons up to 23 years (or 25 if studying) and daughters until marriage.

Q: Are pre-existing conditions covered?
A: Yes, declared and undeclared diseases are covered with no waiting period.

Q: What happens if a media representative leaves their organization?
A: The editor/resident editor/employer/Bureau Chief must inform IPRD and the insurance company immediately.

Q: Can media representatives apply if they have other insurance?
A: Yes, but they must declare any other insurance or mediclaim policies in the application.

Q: How is the insurance premium decided?
A: Based on quotations from government public sector insurance companies and negotiated by IPRD officials.

Q: What is the role of the Journalist Insurance Scheme Cell?
A: To process and monitor applications, verify eligibility, and ensure smooth operation of the scheme.

Q: How is the insurance amount transferred?
A: The insurance becomes effective once the total amount, including the media representative's share, is transferred to the insurance company's account.

Q: How are premium payments made?
A: Payments are made through banker's cheque, demand draft, or electronic transfer to the designated account.

Q: What is the process for renewing the insurance?
A: Renewal paperwork must be completed before the end of the current insurance period.

Q: Are there any restrictions on the hospitals for treatment?
A: Treatment in hospitals tied up with the contracted insurance company is covered under the cashless facility; other treatments are reimbursed.

Q: How can I check the status of my application?
A: Check the status through the IPRD website or contact the District Public Relation Officer.