Non-Governmental Aided Organization (Special Schools and Vocational Training Centre) for Disabled is a welfare scheme of the Department of Social Justice & Special Assistance, Government of Maharashtra. It gives free special education to children with disabilities below 18 years and free vocational training to young adults with disabilities aged 18 and above through aided non-government institutions.
This scheme is fully funded by the Government of Maharashtra, so permanent residents of the state can get quality, supported learning without paying anything. The program is still open and eligible people can apply through their district social welfare office.
Non-Governmental Aided Organization (Special Schools and Vocational Training Centre) for Disabled - Introduction
This scheme is run by the Department of Social Justice & Special Assistance, Government of Maharashtra. It supports children and young adults with disabilities by giving them structured special education and practical vocational training. Children below 18 years get free special schooling, while young adults aged 18 to 45 get vocational training through special workshops that match their disability.
Institutions that run these schools and workshops are supported by the government. The department pays 100 percent of the salary of eligible staff, gives 8 percent of the salary amount for non-salary expenses, and provides building support as well. This keeps the whole system free for the students and their families.
Key Information
| Key Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Non-Governmental Aided Organization (Special Schools and Vocational Training Centre) for Disabled |
| Level | State |
| Beneficiary State | Maharashtra |
| Main Department | Social Justice and Special Assistance Department |
| Implementation Agency | District Social Welfare Offices |
| Benefit Type | Composite (Education, Shelter, Food) |
| Application Mode | Offline |
Benefits
This scheme gives complete support so children with disabilities can study and grow in a safe place. The main benefits are:
- Free special education for children with disabilities between 6 and 18 years, using special teaching methods and learning materials.
- Free vocational training for young adults with disabilities aged 18 to 45 through special workshops made for their needs.
- Arrangement of accommodation and food for students in residential institutions, so they can focus on learning.
- Full government funding, which means the student or family does not have to pay for the schooling or training.
Eligibility
To get the benefit of this scheme, the applicant must meet the criteria given below:
- Must be a citizen of India and a permanent resident of Maharashtra.
- Must be enrolled in an aided non-government or residential institution.
- Must be a person with a disability such as visual impairment, hearing impairment, or orthopedic disability.
- Disability percentage must be 40 percent or higher.
- For special education, the child must be between 6 and 18 years of age.
- For vocational training, the person must be 18 years of age or older (up to 45 years for workshops).
Example: If Rahul is an 8-year-old in Maharashtra with a 50 percent orthopedic disability, he is eligible for special education under this scheme.
Application Process
Offline Application Process
This is an offline scheme, so the application is done by visiting the district office. Follow these steps to apply:
STEP 1 - Visit the nearest District Social Welfare Office or the Assistant Commissioner, Social Welfare office in your district to ask for the official application form.
STEP 2 - Fill out the form carefully, attach a recent passport-sized photograph signed across, and make sure all supporting documents are self-attested.
STEP 3 - Submit the completed application along with the required documents to the Assistant Commissioner at the District Social Welfare Office.
STEP 4 - Collect the receipt or acknowledgment slip once the application is submitted successfully.
Documents
Keep these documents ready before applying:
- Proof of enrollment in the non-government or residential institution.
- Aadhaar card.
- Proof of age such as a birth certificate or 10th/12th marksheet.
- Two signed passport-sized photographs.
- Domicile certificate of Maharashtra.
- Valid disability certificate with minimum 40 percent disability.
- Bank account details including account number, IFSC code, and branch address.
References
Official Scheme List - Social Justice Department
Aided Special Schools and Workshops Details
Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities
FAQ's
Who can apply for this scheme?
The main beneficiaries are children and young adults with disabilities who are permanent residents of Maharashtra and enrolled in an aided institution.
What is the age for vocational training?
People aged 18 years and above are eligible for vocational training, and special workshops cover persons up to 45 years of age.
Is there any income limit for this scheme?
No, this scheme does not have any income-related eligibility criterion.
Are orthopedically disabled people supported?
Yes, the scheme covers different disabilities including orthopedic, visual, and hearing impairments.
Where can I report a grievance?
You can contact the district social welfare office or use the official Maharashtra grievance portal to submit any concern.
