Noida 22 August 2024: The Uttarakhand Monsoon Session has brought some significant perks for the Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) in the state. In a recent development, the state government has decided to extend a set of benefits to its MLAs, including the provision of a “Golden Card,” as well as allowances for railway travel and vehicles. These perks are seen as a move to ease the burden on the legislators and ensure they can perform their duties with greater convenience.
What is the Golden Card?
The “Golden Card” is a special healthcare card that grants MLAs access to top-tier medical facilities across the country. This card allows the cardholder to avail cashless medical treatment in a wide network of hospitals, ensuring that the legislators and their families receive the best possible healthcare without worrying about the expenses. The introduction of this card is part of a broader initiative to provide better health security to those in public service.
The Golden Card is not only a symbol of privilege but also a tool to ensure that MLAs can focus on their legislative duties without the distraction of potential health issues. By providing access to premium healthcare services, the state government aims to keep its legislators in the best possible health, which, in turn, should reflect in their work for the state.
Railway Allowance
In addition to the Golden Card, MLAs in Uttarakhand will now receive a railway allowance. This allowance is intended to cover the cost of railway travel for official duties. Whether attending meetings, visiting constituencies, or engaging in other legislative responsibilities, MLAs will now have the financial backing to cover their railway travel expenses. This move is expected to facilitate smoother and more frequent travel for legislators, ensuring they can maintain close contact with the regions they represent.
The railway allowance is seen as a practical step in making sure that MLAs can efficiently travel across the state and beyond, as necessary, without the financial strain that might otherwise accompany such frequent travel.
Vehicle Allowance
The state government has also decided to provide MLAs with a vehicle allowance. This allowance is meant to cover the costs associated with the use and maintenance of vehicles, including fuel, repairs, and other related expenses. Given the challenging terrains and often remote areas in Uttarakhand, the provision of a vehicle allowance is a significant benefit for MLAs, enabling them to travel comfortably and safely to even the most distant parts of their constituencies.
The vehicle allowance underscores the government’s recognition of the geographical challenges in Uttarakhand and the need for reliable transportation for its legislators. This allowance is expected to enhance the mobility of MLAs, allowing them to reach their constituents more effectively and respond to their needs in a timely manner.
Reactions and Implications
The decision to provide these perks has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters argue that these benefits are necessary for MLAs to perform their duties effectively, especially considering the demands of their roles and the geographical challenges of the state. They believe that ensuring the health and mobility of legislators will lead to better governance and more attentive representation of the people.
On the other hand, critics have raised concerns about the cost of these perks to the state exchequer. In a state where many people struggle with basic needs, the allocation of resources for these allowances may be seen as a luxury that could have been directed towards other pressing issues.
Regardless of the differing opinions, the provision of the Golden Card, along with railway and vehicle allowances, marks a significant development in the benefits extended to Uttarakhand’s MLAs. As these perks come into effect, it will be interesting to observe how they impact the functioning and efficiency of the state’s legislative processes.
