The Gujarat government has announced a significant expansion of a key welfare scheme for persons with disabilities, a move set to benefit thousands more citizens across the state.
Lower Eligibility Threshold for Key Benefits
In a decision taken on Monday, the state administration has revised the eligibility criteria for the Sant Surdas scheme. The crucial change lowers the disability threshold from 80% to 60%. This means individuals with a disability level certified at 60% or more will now be able to access all the benefits provided under this initiative.
An official government statement confirmed that this revised criterion will come into force starting from the 2025-26 financial year. The decision marks a proactive step towards broadening the social security net for the divyang community in Gujarat.
A Legacy of Substantial Support
This policy revision builds upon the state's substantial existing framework of support for persons with disabilities. Over the past five years, the Gujarat government has disbursed a remarkable sum of more than Rs 820 crore in aid. This financial assistance has reached over 4 lakh individuals through various dedicated welfare programmes.
The ecosystem of support is multifaceted, designed to address different needs. The range of schemes and aids available includes:
- The essential Divyang Identity Card
- Free travel on state-run ST buses
- Special Divyang scholarships for education
- Financial assistance for marriage
- The newly expanded Sant Surdas scheme
- The Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme
- Aid for procuring necessary equipment and assistive devices
- Targeted financial aid for individuals with mental disabilities
Implications and Wider Impact
The expansion of the Sant Surdas scheme is expected to have a direct and positive impact on the quality of life for a larger segment of the disabled population. By lowering the eligibility bar, the government acknowledges the challenges faced by those with significant, albeit not the most severe, disabilities.
This move aligns with a broader national push for greater inclusivity and empowerment of persons with disabilities. It demonstrates the state's commitment to continuously evaluate and enhance its social welfare mechanisms. The coming financial year will see the practical implementation of this inclusive policy, bringing tangible benefits to many more households in Gujarat.
