What is the name of the government scheme that provides direct benefit transfers (DBT) to tuberculosis (TB) patients, enabling them to meet their nutritional needs and supporting their financial inclusion, which is also a key objective of the banking industry's financial inclusion initiatives?

Solution

Nikshay Poshan Yojana (NPY) was introduced by the government in April 2018 with the primary aim of providing financial assistance to tuberculosis (TB) patients for their nutritional needs. Recognizing undernutrition as a significant risk factor for TB, the scheme offers ₹ 500 per month as direct benefit transfer (DBT) to TB patients. This monetary support is intended to help patients purchase food and maintain a nutritious diet throughout the duration of their TB treatment. The scheme has seen a gradual increase in beneficiaries over the years, indicating its growing reach and importance in supporting TB patients’ nutritional needs.