In a landmark move for the Bengali film industry, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced that over 7,000 Tollywood technicians will now be covered under the state’s flagship ‘Swasthya Sathi’ health insurance scheme. This significant decision comes following a personal request from superstar and MP Dev, who had recently highlighted the lack of adequate medical security for those working behind the scenes in the studios of Tollygunge.

The initiative aims to provide a safety net for the unsung heroes of cinema, including lightmen, spot boys, set assistants, and makeup artists. Under the Swasthya Sathi scheme, these workers and their families will be entitled to cashless medical treatment up to ₹5 lakh per annum at enlisted hospitals. Dev had pointed out that while actors often enjoy stardom, the technicians who put in grueling hours on the shooting floor frequently struggle with medical expenses during emergencies.

Chief Minister Banerjee’s prompt response has been hailed as a compassionate masterstroke for the industry. The Federation of Cine Technicians and Workers of Eastern India welcomed the move, stating that this recognition of their labor was long overdue. The state government plans to organize special camps soon to expedite the registration and card distribution process for the 7,000 identified beneficiaries. This collaborative effort between the administration and the film industry icons ensures that the backbone of Tollywood remains healthy and secure.