The Kerala High Court has directed the NORKA Department to consider a complaint against the sharp increase in premiums under the NORKA Care health insurance scheme for 2026–27 and take a decision within six weeks. The petition was filed by Pravasi Legal Cell along with two NORKA Care beneficiaries. The dispute centres on the shift from a common group premium to age-based pricing. For ₹5 lakh family cover, the annual premium has increased from ₹13,411 in 2025–26 to ₹35,664 for the 51–60 age group and ₹44,718 for those aged 61–70, representing increases of about 166% and 233%, respectively.
The petitioners have also raised concerns over the reduction in post-hospitalisation coverage from 60 days to 30 days and the short notice given before the revised rates took effect on November 1. They have sought disclosure of the actuarial calculations, claims experience and other material underlying the revised premiums. The Kerala government has defended the restructuring, citing ₹210 crore in claims against ₹145 crore in premium collections, with a significant proportion of claims reportedly linked to serious illnesses. The court’s direction now provides an opportunity for the department to hear the affected parties and review the revised structure.
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