PM Divyasha Kendra from Vajirao & Reddy Institute

PM DIVYASHA KENDRA

Context:

• The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment is inaugurating the 75th Pradhan Mantri Divyasha Kendra (PMDK) in Badaun, Uttar Pradesh.
• This progress strengthens efforts to empower Divyangjan (persons with disabilities) and senior citizens nationwide.

ABOUT PM DIVYASHA KENDRA

• Aim: Provides integrated services under one roof.
• Beneficiaries: Eligible Divyangjan and senior citizens.
• Services: Assessment, evaluation, counselling, distribution, and post-distribution care.
• Implementation: Established by ALIMCO (Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India).
• ALIMCO's Role: It's a Central Public Sector Undertaking (PSU). It falls under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD).

SUPPORTED SCHEMES PMDKs offer assistive aids and appliances under two key schemes:

• ADIP Scheme (Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/Fitting of Aids/Appliances)
  • Beneficiaries:
  • Goal: To help disabled persons get durable, modern aids. This supports their physical and social rehabilitation.
  • Eligibility: Indian citizens of any age with at least 40% disability. Monthly income limits apply (e.g., full cost for incomes up to ?22,500/month).
  • Devices: Tricycles, wheelchairs, hearing aids, artificial limbs, etc. (provided free of cost).
• Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY)
  • Beneficiaries: Senior citizens (above 60 years) from Below Poverty Line (BPL) families. They must have age-related disabilities.
  • Goal: To provide free physical aids to restore near-normal bodily functions.
  • Funding: Central Sector Scheme, fully funded by the Central Government. Funds come from the "Senior Citizens' Welfare Fund."
  • Devices: Walking sticks, hearing aids, spectacles, artificial dentures, etc.

SIGNIFICANCE OF 75th PMDK IN BUDAUN

• Major Milestone: Marks the establishment of 75 operational PMDKs across India.
• Impact: Over 1.40 lakh individuals have already benefited. Devices worth over ?179.15 lakh have been distributed.
• Improved Access: Reduces travel and logistical challenges for local beneficiaries. Offers accessible, dignified, and timely services.
• Government Vision: Reflects the Government’s commitment to ‘Accessible India, Empowered India’. Supports inclusive development through last-mile service delivery.

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