Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman March 26, 2020 announced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore package. To combat economic disruptions due to nationwide lockdown to combat the novel coronavirus pandemic. The Centre will provide 800 mln Indian citizens 5 kg rice/wheat each every month for 3 months. It will also provide 1 kg pulses to every eligible family — over & above normal allowances. She announced a Rs 50 lakh insurance for health workers fighting COVID-19 at govt hospitals & healthcare centres. The Centre will transfer the first PM-KISAN instalment of Rs 2,000 at the start of the next financial year. MNREGA wages will be increased to Rs 202, benefitting 30 mln families. Around 30 mln senior citizens, widows & the differently-abled will get Rs 1,000 ex-gratia in 2 instalments. 83 million BPL families will get free LPG cylinders for three months. Also, 20 crore Jan Dhan Women account holders will receive Rs 500 / month for 3 months.
