Pune: In a heartening initiative coinciding with Independence Day, 207 students and teachers from four Zilla Parishad primary schools in Khodad, Junnar, have been provided with free health insurance.

This noble gesture was spearheaded by local heroes Balakrishna Erande, a superintendent at the Pune Rural Post Office and a former soldier, along with Avdhut Kharmale, a software engineer currently working abroad. Both men funded the insurance coverage out of their own pockets as a tribute to their social responsibility.

The initiative extends to students from Life Education Temple, Amarwadi Zilla Parishad School, Gadachiwadi Zilla Parishad School, and Malwadi Zilla Parishad School, offering them one year of health insurance.

The policy covers up to ₹40,000 in medical expenses for accidents occurring at home or during play. In more severe cases, such as permanent disability or accidental death, the insurance promises a compensation of ₹2 lakh to the affected family.

Additionally, incidents like snake bites, leopard attacks, electric shocks, and sudden accidents are also covered under the plan.

Given that most of the students hail from economically disadvantaged farming families, the provision of health insurance comes as a significant relief.

Awareness about health insurance remains low in rural areas, where unexpected accidents can lead to financial strain. This initiative ensures that students and their families have a safety net against such unforeseen circumstances.

According to Balakrishna Erande, the initiative aims to provide much-needed financial security to students from underprivileged backgrounds, while Avdhut Kharmale hopes that it will also educate parents and villagers on the importance of insurance and the benefits of various postal schemes.