India, March 27 -- Public health minister Prakash Abitkar has directed officials to ensure effective implementation of the 'PM RAHAT' or 'Prime Minister Road Accident Victims Hospitalisation and Assured Treatment' scheme aimed at providing immediate, cashless treatment to victims of road accidents and reducing mortality during the critical 'golden hour'; officials said on Thursday.

The orders were issued during a meeting to review public health schemes held at Mantralaya on Wednesday. As per a statement issued on Thursday, Abitkar emphasised that accident victims should receive prompt medical care of up to Rs.1.5 lakh, free-of-cost, for a period of up to seven days under the scheme.

The meeting was attended by health secretary E Ravindr...