Odisha Government Takes Action to Clear Massive UDID Card Backlog
The Odisha government has launched a comprehensive initiative to address the significant backlog of applications for Unique Disability ID (UDID) cards across the state. This strategic move involves providing financial incentives to medical boards, enhancing their training, and implementing measures to curb the issuance of fraudulent disability certificates.
Addressing the Application Pendency Crisis
The Centre recently conducted a review of UDID applications, identifying substantial backlogs in several districts of Odisha. UDID cards are essential documents that enable persons with disabilities (PwDs) to access various government benefits and schemes. The central authorities have directed the state to expedite the clearance process to ensure that PwDs receive their entitled support without unnecessary delays.
Furthermore, the State Assembly Standing Committee has expressed serious concerns regarding the prolonged verification procedures and the insufficient frequency of medical board sittings. The committee also highlighted the recurring issue of specialist unavailability, particularly during grievance-hearing camps organized by public representatives.
Financial Support and District Categorization
A crucial meeting was held on March 9 under the leadership of the principal secretary of the Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Department. The minutes of this meeting were officially released on Wednesday, outlining the government's decisive actions.
It was resolved that the government will offer financial assistance to medical boards based on the pendency levels in different districts. For districts with high backlogs, medical boards will receive Rs 4,000 per sitting, while districts with moderate pendency will be granted Rs 3,000 per sitting. This financial support will be provided for a duration of six months to incentivize more frequent and efficient board sessions.
The Health and Family Welfare Department will be responsible for categorizing districts into high and moderate pendency groups. An advance amount of Rs 10 lakh has been allocated to the department to facilitate this initiative, according to official sources.
Enhanced Training and Strict Adherence to Guidelines
To ensure accurate and consistent disability assessments, the government will conduct regular virtual training programs for medical board members. These training sessions will be organized especially before board sittings to refresh and update the members on proper assessment techniques.
Official sources have emphasized that the assessment guidelines issued by the Government of India will be strictly followed. This adherence is crucial for issuing proper certifications and ensuring that benefits are disbursed to deserving persons with disabilities without any discrepancies.
Combating Fraudulent Disability Certificates
In a bid to prevent the generation of fake disability certificates and protect eligible PwDs from harassment, the government will implement a robust monitoring system. A district-wise analysis of data concerning PwDs with 75-79% disability will be extracted from the official portal.
Additionally, the percentage difference in reassessment cases will be thoroughly analyzed to identify any irregularities or patterns indicative of fraudulent activities. This proactive approach aims to maintain the integrity of the disability certification process and ensure that only genuine beneficiaries receive the support they need.
The Odisha government's multi-faceted strategy demonstrates a strong commitment to improving the lives of persons with disabilities by streamlining administrative processes, enhancing transparency, and providing timely access to essential benefits.
