JSY incentive runs into bank account hurdle

Under the JSY scheme,all pregnant women above 19 years of age belonging to BPL category/SC/ST will get cash incentive of Rs 1,000. The first incentive of Rs 500 will be disbursed after completion of three ante-natal check-ups at their respective subcentres. The remaining Rs 500 will be given to mothers after delivery in any government institute.

A week ago,senior officials of the state health department spoke with bank authorities for implementation of the scheme. However,the banks were reluctant to provide such a service as most banks do not have a liaison officer to take responsibility of going to each household of the beneficiary and open their bank account.

Senior officials added that in Bengal,8 lakh beneficiaries were entitled to the fund,but till now only 5 lakh had received the incentives. It was found that 4 lakh beneficiaries did not have a bank account. Most pregnant women residing in villages are technologically challenged,and it is difficult for them to open accounts and withdraw money from banks. Even among the 5 lakh beneficiaries who received cash assistance,it was found that their relatives received the money and used it for other purposes.

Dr Asit Biswas,spokesperson of the health and family welfare department,admitted there were problems regarding opening bank accounts for beneficiaries. but they were exploring other methods to disburse the cash incentives.