What is a key benefit provided under Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK)?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Answer: (B) Free delivery and C-section services.
Explanation —
The Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK) was launched by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, on June 1, 2011. The primary objective of this scheme is to provide completely free and cashless services to pregnant women visiting public health institutions for delivery, as well as to sick newborns (up to 30 days of age—a limit which was later extended to 1 year).
Key benefits under this program include normal deliveries and Cesarean (C-section) operations, free medicines, free consumables, free meals, and free ambulance transportation for commuting from home to the hospital. This scheme is in addition to the 'JSY' (Janani Suraksha Yojana) and aims to reduce high Maternal Mortality Rates (MMR) and Infant Mortality Rates (IMR), thereby preventing any financial burden on poor families.
Additional Points —
Regarding Option (A): Cash incentives rather than rations are provided for the nutritional needs of pregnant women under the 'Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana' (PMMVY).
Regarding Option (C): Ambulance transportation is completely free of cost (not a paid service).
Potential Exam Questions and Answers —
Question: What is the difference between the 'Janani Suraksha Yojana' (JSY) and the 'Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram' (JSSK)?
Answer: JSY is a cash incentive scheme, whereas JSSK is a rights-based, 'zero-expense' service delivery scheme.
Question: For how long do sick newborns receive free treatment facilities under JSSK?
Answer: Up to 1 year of age.