In India, persons with disabilities (PwDs) often face significant challenges in their day-to-day lives. These challenges can make independent living difficult, from mobility constraints to difficulties in accessing education and employment. Recognizing the need to support individuals with disabilities, the Government of Uttar Pradesh has introduced the Artificial Limbs and Assistive Equipment Scheme to provide financial assistance for purchasing necessary assistive devices.
This initiative ensures that PwDs, especially those from economically weaker backgrounds, can access artificial limbs and auxiliary equipment that enhance their quality of life. Through this scheme, the government aims to promote self-sufficiency, dignity, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities. In this article, we will delve deep into the scheme’s objectives, benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, required documents, and frequently asked questions.
The objective of the Scheme
The primary goal of this scheme is to assist persons with disabilities in leading independent lives by providing them with the necessary assistive equipment. Many PwDs cannot afford artificial limbs or auxiliary devices due to financial constraints. The Uttar Pradesh government has taken a significant step to bridge this gap by offering financial support for purchasing these essential devices.
Key Objectives of the Scheme:
- To provide financial assistance for the purchase of artificial limbs and assistive equipment.
- To improve mobility and accessibility for persons with disabilities.
- To support students with disabilities by providing them with educational tools.
- To help PwDs in becoming self-reliant and actively participating in society.
- To ensure PwDs from economically weaker backgrounds are not deprived of essential mobility aids.
By fulfilling these objectives, the scheme directly contributes to empowering persons with disabilities and improving their standard of living.
Financial Assistance Under the Scheme
The Uttar Pradesh government provides financial grants to eligible persons with disabilities for purchasing assistive devices. The assistance amount depends on the type of disability and the required equipment.
Grant Amounts:
- For Artificial Limbs and Assistive Equipment: A maximum grant of ₹8,000 per person is provided for purchasing artificial limbs and auxiliary devices.
- For Multi-Disability Cases: If an individual has multiple disabilities and requires more than one assistive device, they can receive a one-time grant of up to ₹10,000.
These grants ensure that PwDs can acquire essential equipment without financial burden.
Types of Assistive Equipment Provided
The scheme covers a wide range of assistive equipment, depending on the nature and severity of the disability. Below are some of the essential devices covered:
1. Mobility Assistance Equipment
- Tricycles – Specially designed for individuals with lower limb disabilities.
- Wheelchairs – Essential for those with severe mobility restrictions.
- C.P. Chairs – Provided to children suffering from Cerebral Palsy (CP).
- Crutches – Supportive walking aids for individuals with walking difficulties.
- Walking Sticks – Standard walking aids for those with mobility issues.
2. Assistive Equipment for Visually Impaired Persons
- Braille Educational Kits – Helps visually impaired students read and write using Braille.
- Mathematical & Geometry Kits – Special tools to assist students in mathematical studies.
- Abacus – Helps visually impaired students in learning numbers and calculations.
- Blind Sticks – Sensor-equipped smart sticks for visually impaired individuals.
3. Assistive Equipment for Hearing-Impaired Persons
- Hearing Aids – Enhances hearing abilities for individuals with partial hearing loss.
- Educational Kits – Special learning kits designed for students with hearing impairments.
4. Assistive Equipment for Persons with Mental Disabilities
- M.S.I.D. (Multi-Sensory Education Development Kit) – A learning aid for students with cognitive impairments.
5. Equipment for Persons Cured of Leprosy
- Daily Activity Kits – Specially designed kits that help leprosy-cured individuals perform everyday tasks.
These assistive devices help PwDs gain mobility, confidence, and independence in their daily activities.
Eligibility Criteria for the Scheme
To benefit from this scheme, applicants must fulfill certain eligibility criteria:
- Residency Requirement: The applicant must be a permanent resident of Uttar Pradesh.
- Disability Percentage: The applicant must have a minimum 40% disability, certified by a Competent Authority of the State Government.
- Income Criteria:
The applicant’s annual family income must be:
· ₹46,080 per year for rural areas
· ₹56,460 per year for urban areas
- Medical Recommendation: A certified medical officer must recommend the assistive device based on the applicant’s disability.
- No Prior Benefits: The applicant must not have received similar benefits from the Central Government, State Government, or Local Bodies in the last three years. (For students, this limit is reduced to one year.)
These criteria ensure that the scheme reaches the most needy and deserving individuals.
Application Process: How to Apply?
The application process for this scheme is offline, and eligible applicants must visit designated government offices to apply.
Step-by-Step Application Process:
- Visit the Nearest Office: Applicants must go to the PWD Empowerment Office / Jan Suvidha Kendra / Lokvani Kendra.
- Collect the Application Form: The form can be obtained from the office or downloaded from an official website.
- Fill Out the Application Form: The applicant must enter all required details correctly.
- Attach the Required Documents: Ensure that all supporting documents are attached.
- Submit the Application Form: The completed form must be submitted to the concerned officer.
- Application Review and Approval: Applications are reviewed on a First Come, First Serve basis, based on fund availability.
- Distribution of Equipment: Approved applicants receive assistive devices through government-organized district camps.
Documents Required for Application
Applicants must submit the following mandatory documents:
- Recent Passport Size Photograph
- Residence/Domicile Certificate
- Disability Certificate (issued by a competent authority)
- Caste Certificate (if applicable for SC/ST/OBC candidates)
- Income Certificate (as proof of financial eligibility)
- Medical Report and Doctor’s Recommendation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for this scheme?
Any person with 40% or more disability, who is a resident of Uttar Pradesh, and meets the income criteria.
2. What is the maximum financial assistance provided?
- ₹8,000 for a single device
- ₹10,000 for multiple devices (one-time grant)
3. Is there an age limit to apply?
No, persons with disabilities of any age can apply.
4. How long does it take to process applications?
Based on available funds, applications are approved on a First Come, First Serve basis.
5. Can an individual receive another pension benefit from this scheme?
Yes, but they should not have received assistive devices in the last three years.
Conclusion
The Artificial Limbs and Assistive Equipment Scheme in Uttar Pradesh is a life-changing initiative for persons with disabilities. By providing financial support for essential assistive devices, this scheme enables PwDs to lead independent and fulfilling lives. If you or someone you know is eligible, don’t miss this opportunity to apply today.