The state government on Tuesday extended a helping hand to victims of acid attacks by making provisions for medical assistance up to Rs 1.5 lakh from the chief minister's relief fund.

A decision to this effect was taken at a meeting of the cabinet chaired by chief minister Nitish Kumar. An acid attack victim would be given Rs 1.5 lakh for plastic surgery of face and Rs 1 lakh for carrying out operation of other parts of the body.

The government also enhanced the amount to be given from the chief minister's fund for other diseases. For a visually impaired, who has been recommended for cochlear implant, the government would now provide medical assistance up to Rs 6.5 lakh.

Principal secretary, cabinet coordination department, Shishir Sinha said: "Some new diseases have been included in the list and the amount of medical assistance enhanced accordingly. The amount for carrying operation of a cancer patient in the state has been increased to Rs 80,000 from the existing Rs 40,000.