In case of an unfortunate incident, accident and medical cover will provide relief to forest trackers and their families. The premium has been donated from my personal funds, and will be taken care of for the next 10 years either from my personal funds or through my trust Parimal Nathwani, lion enthusiast and Rajya Sabha memberAhmedabad: Wildlife trackers in Gir and Greater Gir areas, who play a key role in protection and conservation efforts, will get accidental and medical insurance of upto Rs 10 lakh. Around 220 trackers will be covered with support from Gujarat State Lion Conservation Society, it was announced at an awareness workshop for trackers being held since Saturday in Sasan Gir.With cooperation of the state forest department, the Gujarat State Lion Conservation Society has roped in New India Assurance to provide cover ranging from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 10 lakh to trackers, officials said, adding that many insurers were unwilling to provide cover, considering the risks involved in the job. “Due to efforts of Rajya Sabha member and lion enthusiast Parimal Nathwani, New India Assurance Company agreed to provide insurance to forest trackers of Gir and Greater Gir,” an official said.Nathwani said insurance is important for trackers as they are vital for wildlife protection and conservation. He added that they are at considerable risk while rescuing injured animals or victims of human-animal conflict.In case of accidental death, the family of a trackers will get up to Rs 10 lakh as compensation. Additionally, education assistance of up to Rs 25,000 for one child and a maximum assistance of Rs 50,000 for two children will be paid.In case of permanent disability from an accident, damages will be paid as per the insurer’s rules. In case of loss of limbs or loss of vision, a certain percentage of the insurance cover will be paid according to terms of the coverage. Leave compensation, medical expenses and costs to shift remains of the deceased, etc too will be covered as per the terms and conditions. A Rs 3 lakh cover has been provided for hospitalization, and includes surgery cost, room charges, doctor’s fees, tests and medicines.
