Andhra Pradesh Disability Certificate Applications Surge Past 57,000
In a remarkable demonstration of demand for disability certification services, Andhra Pradesh has recorded an extraordinary influx of applications for SADAREM (Software for Assessment of Disabled for Access Rehabilitation and Empowerment) certificates. Within just 24 hours of the state government reopening online slot bookings, a staggering 57,452 applicants registered for disability assessment tests, highlighting the critical need for these essential services.
Government's Digital Push Facilitates Massive Response
KVN Chakradhar Babu, Director of Secondary Health, confirmed that the government enabled online slot booking for conducting medical assessments of 80,653 applicants across 110 designated hospitals statewide. The rapid registration of over 57,000 applications immediately following the reopening indicates strong public engagement with the enhanced digital infrastructure.
"After a gap since December 31, 2025, we resumed slot bookings with improved digital systems," explained Babu. "The overwhelming response within the first day alone demonstrates both the pent-up demand and the effectiveness of our online portal."
Breakdown of Applicants and Disability Categories
Of the total applicants, approximately 41,000 are first-time applicants seeking initial disability certification, while the remaining individuals had previously undergone assessments and filed appeals seeking reassessment of their disability status.
The data reveals significant patterns across disability categories:
- Locomotor disability recorded the highest number of applications with approximately 31,000 applicants
- Hearing impairment followed with 8,000 applications
- Visual impairment accounted for around 6,000 applications
- Intellectual and mental health-related disabilities also saw notable registrations
District-Wise Application Distribution
The application distribution across Andhra Pradesh districts shows considerable variation:
- Kadapa recorded the highest number of applications (3,240)
- Guntur followed closely with 3,034 applications
- Palnadu reported 2,860 applications
- Chittoor had 2,733 applications
- Tirupati recorded 2,730 applications
On the lower end of the spectrum, Polavaram reported only 251 applications, while Manyam (522), Alluri Sitarama Raju (812), Markapuram (870), and Bapatla (900) recorded comparatively fewer registrations.
Assessment Schedule and Operational Details
Medical examinations for disability assessment will be conducted from March 30 through the end of May at selected hospitals across the state. Considering the availability of medical professionals and logistical arrangements, the assessment camps will be held exclusively on Mondays and Tuesdays throughout this period.
Key Reform in Appeal Mechanism
In a significant procedural reform, the government has introduced a revised appeal mechanism to ensure fairness in the allocation process. Applicants seeking reassessment must now cancel their previous ID at the hospital and reapply online, ensuring that first-time applicants receive priority in slot booking. This change addresses the previous system where appeal applicants had an advantage due to pre-existing IDs.
"This reform creates a more equitable system," noted Babu. "First-time applicants now have proper priority access, while those seeking reassessment follow a streamlined process that doesn't disadvantage new applicants."
The massive response to the SADAREM certificate applications underscores the importance of disability certification in accessing rehabilitation services, government benefits, and empowerment programs across Andhra Pradesh.
