Xizang marks 60 years with new welfare measures

The government of the Xizang autonomous region has unveiled new welfare measures to mark its 60th anniversary, pledging greater support for infants, children, and the elderly.

Regional officials said on Monday at a press conference that 10 additional livelihood projects would be introduced this year, on top of 28 already planned, supported by a budget of 14.8 billion yuan (nearly $2 billion).

The measures include free health insurance for newborns, childcare subsidies for children under three, and higher basic pensions for elderly residents. Authorities say these moves are aimed at easing household costs and improving access to public services, particularly for families in remote areas.

Under the new policy, newborns will now automatically qualify for health insurance valued at up to 200,000 yuan in medical coverage at no personal cost. Around 50,000 infants are expected to benefit each year. Families with children under three will receive an annual subsidy of 3,600 yuan, benefiting an estimated 170,000 toddlers.

For older residents, the government will raise the basic pension by 120 yuan per person annually, following an earlier 240 yuan increase this year. Officials say the change will enhance income security for about 320,000 people.

Pema Wangyal, a resident in the capital city of Lhasa, praised the news, saying the newly added benefits would greatly benefit locals.

"The policies of providing heating subsidies for low-income families and subsidizing shipping fees for rural residents are a great help for locals," said Pema Wangyal. "They show how much the government cares about vulnerable grassroots communities."