Kerala Allocates ₹14.4 Crore to Sustain Kasaragod Endosulfan Relief Package
The state administration has authorized a multi-million rupee funding injection to support thousands of victims in Kasaragod through the Sneha Sandhwanam project. This budget covers direct monthly stipends, caregiver support, and infrastructure upgrades for rehabilitation centers.
Key takeaways
- Kerala authorized ₹14.40 crore for the Sneha Sandhwanam rehabilitation package in Kasaragod for the 2026-2027 fiscal year.
- Over 5,200 existing beneficiaries will receive monthly financial aid, with room for 1,000 additional recipients.
- The budget includes specific provisions for 771 caregivers and educational assistance for 400 children.
- Nearly ₹1.17 crore is dedicated to upgrading ten model child rehabilitation centers in the affected region.
Funding Framework and Beneficiary Reach
The Kerala government issued administrative sanction for ₹14.40 crore to maintain the 'Sneha Sandhwanam' welfare initiative in Kasaragod district. This financial commitment, channeled via the Social Justice Department, is integrated into the 2026–2027 fiscal year budget. The Chief Minister’s Office characterized this move as the fulfillment of a pledge to provide continuous care for those suffering from the long-term effects of pesticide exposure.
A significant portion of the funds focuses on direct cash transfers. The government earmarked ₹9,84,31,200 to provide monthly relief for 5,208 existing beneficiaries from April 2026 to March 2027. Furthermore, ₹2.64 crore is reserved for 1,000 additional residents expected to join the relief rolls during the upcoming cycle.
Support for Caregivers and Education
Recognizing the strain on families, the state allocated ₹64,76,400 to the 'Ashwasakiranam' scheme. This particular funding provides monthly stipends to 771 caregivers who provide full-time assistance to endosulfan patients. Educational needs are also addressed, with ₹10,05,000 set aside to cover schooling benefits for 400 children throughout the 2026–27 academic term.
Infrastructure and Model Centers
Beyond individual stipends, the state is investing in communal recovery assets. A total of ₹1,16,87,400 will be utilized to modernize physical facilities and service delivery at 10 model child rehabilitation centers across the region. This follows previous criticism from the Supreme Court regarding the pace of state-led support for victims in the region.
Key Facts
- Total sanctioned amount: ₹14.40 crore for the 2026–2027 financial year.
- Direct monthly aid beneficiaries: 5,208 current and 1,000 projected new recipients.
- Caregiver assistance: 771 individuals supported under the Ashwasakiranam scheme.
- Educational support: Funding secured for 400 children of affected families.
- Infrastructure: Modernization of 10 model child rehabilitation centers in Kasaragod.
Source: The Hindu — National
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