Save Road Accident Victims and Get Rewarded
Good Samaritan Cash Prize Increased from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 25,000
Journo.K.V.R.Prasad, M.J.M.C.,
Mumbai, January 31, 2025 – In a significant move to encourage citizens to assist road accident victims, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari announced on Thursday that the reward for Good Samaritans under the Good Samaritan Scheme has been increased from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 25,000. The scheme, launched in October 2021, will continue until March 2026 and aims to promote a culture of responsibility and compassion among citizens.
The Good Samaritan Scheme provides financial incentives to states that implement the initiative, with an upfront payment of Rs. 5 lakhs to participating states. According to government data tabled in Parliament as of December 2022, 80 Good Samaritans have been awarded for their heroic efforts in saving lives.
Speaking at a Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) road safety event, Gadkari emphasized the importance of the scheme and highlighted the ministry’s efforts to support accident victims. “If you go to the hospital after an accident, based on a simple formality on our website, we will provide seven-day expenses or a maximum of Rs. 1.5 lakh immediately,” he said. This insurance scheme, which covers accidents on all roads—not just national highways—has already benefited 6,840 people since its pilot launch in March 2024. Currently active in states like Assam, Chandigarh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Puducherry, and Haryana, the scheme is set to expand to all states by March 2025.
Gadkari expressed deep concern over India’s alarming road accident statistics, with over 500,000 crashes annually leading to 172,000 deaths. He attributed the high accident rate to poor driving behavior, disregard for traffic rules, and road quality issues. “Black spots have been identified, and we are rectifying them by spending Rs. 40,000 crore. Our detailed project reports are defective too, but we will improve that,” he assured.
The minister also called for greater accountability in road safety, urging industry and academia to conduct independent post-accident audits. “Study accidents, conduct safety audits, and sponsor them. Expose those responsible, including NHAI officials. Put pressure on road contractors and engineers so they face non-bailable offenses,” he said.
The increase in the Good Samaritan reward money is expected to motivate more citizens to step forward and assist accident victims without fear of legal or procedural hassles. This initiative, coupled with the ministry’s insurance scheme, aims to reduce fatalities and provide immediate support to those in need.
As India continues to grapple with road safety challenges, the government’s efforts to incentivize Good Samaritans and improve infrastructure offers a glimmer of hope. With increased awareness and participation, these measures could pave the way for safer roads and a more compassionate society.
Key Highlights:
- Good Samaritan Reward Increased: From Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 25,000.
- Scheme Duration: October 2021 to March 2026.
- States’ Incentive: Rs. 5 lakh upfront for implementing the scheme.
- Insurance Scheme: Provides Rs. 1.5 lakh or seven-day expenses for accident victims.
- Beneficiaries: 6,840 people benefited so far; 80 Good Samaritans awarded by December 2022.
- Road Safety Measures: Rs. 40,000 crore allocated to rectify black spots and improve road quality.
This announcement marks a significant step forward in India’s road safety journey, encouraging citizens to become heroes in times of crisis.
For more details and how to get this reward visit our website: www.vistaranainfo.com
