New Delhi:
In a major initiative, the Delhi State AIDS council has decided to provide Below Poverty
Line (BPL) cards to HIV and AIDS patients irrespective of their economic status.
The proposal if okayed by the Delhi Government will ensure distribution of BPL cards among the HIV and AIDS patients which will in turn enable them to get free travel on DTC buses and in future on Delhi Metro.
The decision taken during the council's meeting chaired by Delhi Health Minister Kiran Walia will help about 6,500 HIV and AIDS patients in the national Capital.
"Apart from ensuring nutritional support, on production of these cards they will also be allowed free travels in DTC buses...Free CT Scan, MRI, Ultrasound and Special NAT Test will also be ensured for the HIV/AIDS patients," Walia informed after the meeting.
She said requests have also been received to allow them free travel in Metro Rail and the matter will be taken up with DMRC at the appropriate level.
The BPL cards come with number of benefits for people of below poverty line including subsidised facilities like ration and housing among others.