The Goa government has officially launched the High-Support Disability Scheme, in a significant stride towards fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. This landmark initiative is designed to provide substantial financial relief and essential support to Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBDs), addressing the specific and often high-cost needs associated with advanced disability support.
The core of this new scheme is the provision of a ₹40,000 one-time financial assistance grant, aimed at directly improving the quality of life, independence, and overall self-reliance of the beneficiaries across the state.
The Financial Lifeline – Breakdown of the ₹40,000 Grant
The High-Support Disability Scheme moves beyond traditional monthly allowances by offering a substantial, lump-sum amount. This one-time grant of ₹40,000 is carefully designated to cover critical areas that are fundamental to the daily functioning and integration of individuals requiring high levels of support. The funds can be utilized across three key domains:
- Assistive Technologies and Devices – This is perhaps the most critical component. The grant facilitates the purchase of specialized equipment, such as advanced wheelchairs, customized prosthetic limbs, hearing aids, communication devices, computer accessibility tools, and other necessary mobility aids that are often prohibitively expensive.
- Personal Care Assistance – A significant portion of the aid is intended to cover the costs associated with employing or engaging a Personal Care Assistant (PCA). For individuals with severe disabilities, assistance with daily activities, mobility, and essential personal needs is crucial, and this grant helps make professional support more accessible.
- Educational Training or Support Services – The scheme recognizes the importance of vocational training, specialized educational programs, or other support services that are tailored to enhance skills, facilitate employment, and enable greater participation in the economic life of the state.
This dedicated financial support provides beneficiaries with the flexibility to choose resources and services based on their individual, unique requirements, thus maximizing the impact of the assistance.
Eligibility Criteria for Goa High-Support Disability Scheme
The scheme specifically targets individuals classified under “Benchmark Disabilities.” In the context of Indian legislation (Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016), a “Benchmark Disability” refers to:
- A disability of forty percent or more, as certified by the designated medical authority.
- Individuals falling under the specified categories of disabilities listed in the Act, which includes locomotor disability, visual impairment, hearing impairment, mental illness, intellectual disability, and multiple disabilities, among others.
By focusing on this benchmark, the Goa government ensures that the financial assistance is channeled toward those individuals whose needs are most substantial and who require high levels of support for daily living and social inclusion.
Application Process for High-Support Disability Scheme
Prospective beneficiaries must adhere to the official application channels established by the state. The responsibility for the scheme’s implementation and outreach lies with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Goa.
Steps for Eligible Applicants:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure the applicant possesses a valid disability certificate and meets the criteria for “Benchmark Disability.”
- Contact DEPwD: Eligible individuals should approach the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) or its designated offices for the official application form and guidelines.
- Submit Documentation: Necessary documents typically include the Aadhaar Card, proof of Goan residency, bank account details, and the Benchmark Disability Certificate.
- Grant Allotment: Following verification and approval, the one-time grant of ₹40,000 is disbursed to the beneficiary.
At the scheme’s launch event, the first set of beneficiaries were handed their allotment letters, symbolizing the swift commencement of the initiative and the government’s commitment to timely delivery of support.
Vision for Goa High-Support Disability Scheme
The launch of the High-Support Disability Scheme marks an essential shift in Goa’s social welfare policy. It represents more than just a financial handout; it is an investment in human capital and a commitment to universal design and accessibility.
- Financial aid for assistive devices directly contributes to greater personal mobility and reduces reliance on caregivers, fostering independence.
- By funding specialized training and support services, the scheme helps PwBDs acquire skills that lead to sustainable employment and economic integration.
- The grant significantly reduces the financial burden on families caring for individuals with high-support needs, allowing resources to be reallocated and improving the family’s overall quality of life.
This progressive move by the Goa government solidifies its position as a state actively championing the rights and dignity of all its citizens, ensuring that the path to growth is inclusive and accessible to everyone, irrespective of physical or intellectual challenges. The High-Support Disability Scheme is poised to be a powerful catalyst for change, driving social inclusion across the vibrant coastal state.
For more details visit the official website :- https://scpwd.goa.gov.in/