Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday released benefits under PM CARES for Children Scheme via video conference.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said that PM CARES for Children is a small effort to reduce the difficulties of  COVID-19 affected children who lost both their mother and father. PM CARES for children is also a reflection of the fact that every countryman is with you with the utmost sensitivity, PM Modi said.

Empathising with the difficulties in the lives of those children who lost their loved ones due to Coronavirus, the Prime Minister said, “Every day's struggle, every day's challenges. It is difficult to put into words the pain of the children who are with us today, for whom this program is happening. I am speaking as a member of the family, not as a Prime Minister".

The Prime Minister further informed that if someone needs an education loan for professional courses or higher education, then PM-CARES will help.

"If someone needs an education loan for professional courses, or for higher education, then PM CARES will help in that too. Rs 4,000 have also been arranged for them every month through other schemes for other daily needs. Apart from Rs 10 lakh on attaining the age of 23 years the children will be given health coverage through the Ayushman Card and emotional counselling through samvad helpline for psychological and emotional help," PM Modi said.

The Prime Minister advised the children not to allow despair to turn into defeat. He asked them to listen to their elders and their teacher. He also said that in these difficult times good books can be their reliable friends. He also asked them to stay disease-free and get involved and lead Khelo India and Fit India Movement.

“Maa Bharati is with all you children in this hour of difficulty.  The nation is trying to meet its responsibility through PM CARES for Children," the Prime Minister said.

Referring to the welfare policies like Swachh Bharat Mission, Jan Dhan Yojna or Har Ghar Jal Abhiyan, the Prime Minister said that the government is moving with the spirit of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas.

"The last eight years have been devoted to the welfare and service of the poor. As a member of the family, we have tried to reduce difficulties and improve the ease of living for the poor of the country," the Prime Minister added.