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.