The Himachal Pradesh government on Tuesday came up with a scheme to compensate rape victims by providing them financial assistance of up to Rs. 75,000.

The cabinet, at its meeting presided over by chief minister Prem Kumar Dhumal, granted approval to financial assistance and a support service scheme, a government spokesperson told IANS in Shimla.

"The aim is to ensure that the affected women will not only get financial assistance but also other support services like shelter, counselling, medical aid, legal assistance, education and vocational training, depending upon the needs of the victims," he added.

Under the scheme, an affected woman will be entitled to financial assistance and restorative support, adding up to a maximum of Rs.75,000.

The assistance shall be available in cases where the first information report (FIR) is registered on or after the date from which the scheme comes into effect.