Applications for a new state programme offering cash compensation to internally displaced persons (IDPs) open today and will run until 2 November.

According to the Health Ministry, displaced people can submit applications at Public Service Halls nationwide.

The ministry stressed that taking part in the new programme is entirely voluntary and open to every displaced family that has not yet received housing or equivalent compensation from the state.

“Cash compensation will be paid out in the order in which applications are received, and will amount to GEL 10,000 for each displaced member of the family,” the ministry said.

This year’s budget sets GEL 58 million for the programme, with funding set to rise further in the coming years.

A commission meeting held at the IDP Agency, attended by Giorgi Tsagareishvili, Deputy Minister of Internally Displaced Persons from the Occupied Territories, Labour, Health and Social Affairs, and the agency’s director, Davit Kaikatsishvili, discussed the procedural details of how the programme will be run.

All adult family members must be present in person when filing the application. Once submitted, applications will be processed by the relevant IDP Agency department in the order received. The number of families receiving cash compensation will depend on the available budget.

“Importantly, the construction of modern housing complexes and the ‘Rural House’ purchase programme are continuing at full pace. Cash compensation will be provided alongside them and will not hold up the progress of these existing, successful programmes,” the ministry said.