Parliament Question: Empowerment and skilling of Divyangjan

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF SOCIAL JUSTICE & EMPOWERMENT DEPARTMENT OF EMPOWERMENT OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (DIVYANGJAN) RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO - 4281 ANSWERED ON – 01/04/2026 EMPOWERMENT AND SKILLING OF DIVYANGJAN 4281. DR. SIKANDER KUMAR: Will the Minister of SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT be pleased to state: (a) the specific objectives and State-wise implementation plan for newly launched Diyangjan Kaushal Yojana and Divyang Sahara Yojana; (b) whether Government plans to establish Assistive Technology Marts in every district to ensure retail-style availability of AI-integrated assistive devices, and; (c) the steps taken to ensure that increased funding for Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India leads to reduced import dependence for high-tech disability aids; and (d) the steps taken to integrate Unique Disability ID database with State-level welfare schemes in Himachal Pradesh to ensure seamless delivery of the Disability Relief Allowance? ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT (SHRI B. L. VERMA) (a): The objectives of Divyang Sahara Yojana, as announced in the Union Budget 2026–27, are to ensure timely access to high-quality assistive devices to eligible Divyangjan as a basic requirement. The Scheme provides for support to the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) for scaling up production of assistive devices, promotion of research and development (R&D) including Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration, strengthening of Pradhan Mantri Divyasha Vayoshri Kendras (PMD-VKs), and establishment of Assistive Technology Marts (AT Marts) as modern retail-style centres where Divyangjan and senior citizens can see, try and purchase assistive products.The objectives of Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana, as announced in the Union Budget 2026–27, are to provide industry-relevant and customized training to each divyangjan group for task-oriented and process-driven roles in sectors such as Information Technology (IT), Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comics (AVGC), Hospitality, and Food & Beverage. The Scheme envisages implementation through Government and Non-Government Organizations in collaboration with relevant industry partners. As regards the State-wise implementation plan, the frameworks of both the Schemes do not envisage State-wise allocation, and the Schemes are intended to cover beneficiaries across the country. (b): No, Sir. There is no such plan at present to establish Assistive Technology Marts (AT Marts) in every district. (c): ALIMCO is undertaking measures for indigenous development, design and manufacturing of advanced assistive devices. Efforts are being made to collaborate with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and start-ups for technology transfer (ToT) in high-end assistive technology, with a view to reducing import dependence. The Corporation is also strengthening its in-house R&D capabilities, undertaking technology upgradation, and fostering collaborations with research institutions and industry partners. Focus is also being given to standardization, quality enhancement and augmentation of production capacities to meet growing demand and promote self-reliance in the assistive devices sector. (d): The Unique Disability Identity (UDID) sub-scheme is aimed at creating a national database of Divyangjan and ensuring transparency and efficiency in issuance of disability certificates and UDID cards through a centralized portal. The Department has prescribed a mechanism for integration of the UDID database with State/UT welfare scheme platforms through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enable secure data sharing and real-time verification. With respect to the State of Himachal Pradesh, no proposal/request has been received for integration of its State-level welfare scheme portals, including Disability Relief Allowance, with the UDID database. *****