Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has announced an ex gratia of 15 lakh rupees to the family members of the working journalists who die of coronavirus infection while performing their duty.<br />'' <br />''A statement released by Chief Minster's Office said, the journalists are sincerely carrying out their responsibility by creating awareness about the deadly coronavirus. If a working journalist dies of the virus, the state government will provide 15 lakh rupees ex gratia to the kin.<br />'' <br />''<span style="color: #222222;">Earlier, the Chief Minister had announced an assistance of 50 lakh rupees for the family members of medical/healthcare officials and members of support services who die during the battle against COVID-19. The state will treat them as martyrs and accord a state funeral.</span><br />