Bhubaneswar, Aug. 6 (UDN): The Odisha government is set to review the health insurance benefits available to journalists, with Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling on Thursday assuring that concerns raised by media professionals will be examined and necessary steps taken to strengthen the existing framework.

The minister said the government has initiated discussions with the Information and Public Relations (I&PR) Department to assess the effectiveness of the current insurance coverage and explore the scope for further improvements.

Addressing the issue, Mahaling said journalists in the state are already covered under the Gopabandhu Sambadika Swasthya Bima Yojana (GSSBY), which provides health insurance benefits to accredited media personnel. However, the government is evaluating whether the scheme requires enhancement to better meet the healthcare needs of journalists.

He noted that consultations between the Health Department and the I&PR Department have already begun, including discussions on issues related to the Ayushman Bharat health card and the implementation of the existing insurance scheme.

Describing journalists as the “fourth pillar of democracy,” the minister said the government is committed to addressing their concerns and ensuring that they have access to effective healthcare support.

“If there are any shortcomings in the existing scheme, the government will examine them and take appropriate measures to resolve the issues,” Mahaling said, adding that a final decision would be taken after detailed consultations with the concerned departments and stakeholders.

The proposed review comes amid growing demands from media organisations for enhanced health coverage and improved welfare measures for journalists, particularly in view of the occupational risks and health challenges associated with the profession.

Government officials said the review is aimed at making the existing health insurance scheme more responsive and beneficial for journalists across the state while ensuring better access to quality healthcare services.