Premier Li Keqiang called for more support to guarantee the basic living of low-income groups amid the impact on the nation's economy caused by the domestic and overseas epidemic during the State Council executive meeting on March 31.

It was decided at the meeting that social assistance subsidies and monthly subsidies will be doubled from March to June, covering more than 67 million people.

The policy also will cover orphans, children with no support and eligible laid-off workers.

It is critical for a stable and fair society to guarantee a basic livelihood for low-income groups, especially those living in difficulties, Premier Li said.

He urged paying strong attention to the severe impact on them posed by the epidemic and guaranteeing a basic living standard for those living with difficulties.

Meanwhile, it was decided at the meeting that people plagued by COVID-19 will enjoy a basic living allowance, an allowance for people in dire poverty, temporary assistance, and employment assistance.

Unemployment insurance for urban laid-off workers and a temporary living allowance for migrant workers should be in place. Research on upgraded unemployment insurance also will be accelerated.

Premier Li said concerned departments should follow up with the real-time situation of low-income communities, and adjust and introduce related policies and measures in a timely manner, in an effort to meet their basic living requests.