Bengaluru: Minister for Forest, Environment and Ecology Eshwar Khandre announced that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) had been entered into with Bank of Baroda to provide Rs. 2 crore accident (death) insurance to regular staff of the department and Rs. 20 lakh insurance coverage for outsourced employees.

Speaking to mediapersons,  he said frontline workers in the department have been working round-the-clock as green warriors to protect the forest and wildlife during which the department has lost brave warriors.

“The MoU has been entered into to provide financial security to the staff members. The outsourced employees have also played a significant role in protecting the forests and wildlife for which Rs. 20 lakh insurance had been extended to them,” the Minister said.

Khandre added that the accidental life insurance will be valid till the age of 70 years if the employees continue their pension account with the Bank of Baroda. In addition, the bank will provide Rs. 10 lakh life insurance coverage to permanent employees.

He added that awareness should be created about the initiative and employees have been instructed to open salary accounts with Bank of Baroda.

“Precautions have been taken to ensure safety of the employees. Additionally, prohibitory orders will be imposed during the operations to prevent general public from entering the area. Emphasis has also been given to increase e-patrolling and setting up of command centre at various locations,” he added.