Surat, (Gujarat) [India]: Every year on December 3, the world observes International Day of Persons with Disabilities to promote equal opportunities and recognize the rights of differently-abled individuals. This day highlights the importance of integrating differently-abled persons into political, social, economic, and cultural spheres while raising awareness about their challenges and contributions to society.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reflecting sensitivity and respect for differently-abled individuals, introduced the term Divyang (divine body) to replace Viklang (disabled). Under his leadership, the Central Government passed the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, which aims to provide security and dignity to individuals with disabilities. Both the central and state governments have introduced several welfare schemes for their benefit.
State Welfare Schemes for Differently-Abled Persons
Gujarat offers various schemes, including disability identity cards, free travel on state transport buses, scholarships, marriage assistance, and other economic aid programs.
Key Highlights:
- Universal Disability ID Cards:
These cards ensure that differently-abled individuals can access future welfare schemes easily. Over 19,952 individuals in Surat district have already received free travel ID cards for state transport buses, now valid for a lifetime. - Sant Surdas Scheme:
The scheme previously required beneficiaries to hold a BPL (Below Poverty Line) card and be aged between 0 and 17 years. These conditions have been removed, allowing more individuals with over 80% disability to benefit. - Free Travel Passes:
Differently-abled individuals and their assistants (in cases like Parkinson’s, Hemophilia, Muscular Dystrophy, etc.) can avail 100% free travel within Gujarat and up to the last station of interstate routes. - Marriage Assistance Scheme:
Under this scheme, differently-abled individuals receive ₹50,000 for marriage assistance. If both partners are differently-abled, the amount increases to ₹1 lakh. In 2024, 33 individuals in Surat district were granted ₹16.50 lakh under this scheme. - Scholarship Scheme:
Students with disabilities receive financial aid ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 annually, depending on their grade level. This year, 233 beneficiaries in Surat district received ₹3.80 lakh in scholarships. - Economic Assistance for Families:
Families of differently-abled individuals who face accidental death or injuries are eligible for ₹1 lakh under the insurance scheme.
Inclusive Vision for the Future
The government’s initiatives ensure not only financial support but also aim to shift societal perspectives toward differently-abled individuals, integrating them into mainstream society.
This year, the United Nations has chosen the theme: “Expanding Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.”
Differently-abled individuals can apply online for Gujarat’s welfare schemes through esamajkalyan.gujarat.gov.in.
With sustained efforts, Gujarat is paving the way for a more inclusive society, empowering differently-abled individuals to lead fulfilling lives and contribute to the nation’s progress.
