Silchar: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has unveiled an upgraded scheme, the ‘Rah-Veer’ scheme. The initiative aims to honour and reward Good Samaritans who help road accident victims receive medical aid within the critical Golden Hour.
According to a press release issued by the Regional Office of Information & Public Relations, Barak Valley Zone, Silchar, the scheme came into effect on April 21, 2025. It offers cash rewards and official recognition to individuals who act swiftly and assist victims of serious road accidents. Under the new guidelines, any individual who ensures that accident victims are hospitalised within the Golden Hour will be recognised as a “Rah-Veer.” They will receive ₹5,000 per case, with a maximum reward of ₹25,000 if multiple victims are helped in a single incident. Each recipient will also be given a Certificate of Appreciation. In addition, the 10 most outstanding Rah-Veers will be chosen annually for a national-level award of ₹1 lakh each for their bravery and selfless service.
To encourage participation and remove fear of legal consequences, officials reaffirmed that the legal protections granted to Good Samaritans under the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, and related 2020 rules remain fully applicable. Helpers cannot be harassed or subjected to legal action without their consent. Any grievances will be handled by district-level committees. Verification and approval of claims will be managed by a district committee headed by the District Magistrate. Approved awards will be transferred directly to the recipients’ bank accounts within a week. A state-level committee will review the implementation of the scheme through quarterly assessments.
Through the ‘Rah-Veer’ scheme, the central government aims to foster a culture of empathy and timely assistance on Indian roads, reducing fatalities and ensuring that citizens feel empowered to act during emergencies.