In Kerala, a Pension and Life Insurance Fund for overseas Indian workers was launched at a function in Kochi this evening. Launching the scheme, Union Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi said the scheme envisages providing pension, resettlement and life insurance to overseas Indian workers, with contribution from the union government.He said, for 5000 rupees paid by the beneficiary, the union government will contribute 2000 rupees under the scheme. For women domestic workers, the government's contribution will be 3000 rupees. He said the scheme is meant for workers for whom emigration clearance is required and added that steps will be taken to extend its coverage by bringing in more people under it. Speaking on the occasion, the Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy urged the union government to ensure the release of all Indians held hostage by Somalian pirates. He said 118 Indians are held hostage by the pirates, and the government should take steps to ensure their release.