(a) whether the Government proposes to provide artificial limb or any other aids to all
physically handicapped persons having 40 per cent or more disability in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor;
(c) whether the Government proposes to increase the existing pension amount given to
differently abled persons; and
(d) if so, the details thereof and the time by which it is likely to be implemented?
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT (SHRI P.BALRAM NAIK)
(a) & (b) Under the Scheme of Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/Fitting of Aids/
Appliances(ADIP), grant-in-aid is provided to various Implementing Agencies to assist the
needy disabled persons in procuring durable, sophisticated and scientifically manufactured,
modern, standard aids and appliances that can promote their physical, social and psychological
rehabilitation by reducing the effects of disabilities and enhance their economic potential.
The Scheme also envisages conduct of corrective surgeries, whenever required, before providing
an assistive device. Under the existing scheme, persons with disabilities (PwDs) with an income
upto Rs. 6500/- per mongh, get the aids/appliances free. For income level between Rs. 6,501 to
10,000, aids are provided at 50% of the cost. Only those aids/appliances, which do not cost more
than Rs. 6000/- are covered under the Scheme.
(c) & (d) Ministry of Rural Development constituted a Task Force under the Chairmanship
of Dr.Mihir Shah, Member, Planning Commission to prepare a proposal for a Comprehensive
National Social Assistance Programme. Further action has been initiated keeping in view
the recommendations of the Task Force.