New Delhi: In a first-of-its-kind initiative, Delhi govt’s social welfare department plans to launch a financial aid scheme of Rs 6,000 monthly for caretakers and attendants of persons with disabilities (PwDs) suffering from 60% or more disability and requiring high support.The scheme, which has been discussed at the cabinet level, is in its final stages of preparation and will likely be rolled out as part of Sewa Pakhwada on Sept 17, coinciding with PM Modi’s birthday, said officials.Explaining the need for the financial assistance scheme, officials said for many families in the city, caring for a loved one with severe disabilities means being on call round-the-clock. Parents often give up jobs, siblings adjust their routines, and in several homes, every aspect of daily life revolves around the needs of one person who cannot be left alone. In many cases, the responsibility can be overwhelming.
Social welfare department data indicates Delhi has about 2,700 families with members who have 60% or more disability and are completely dependent on others. Currently, the department runs a pension scheme under which persons with over 40% of a specified disability receive Rs 2,500 monthly, but there is no provision for assistance for caregivers.Officials said the new scheme aims to address this gap. “The aim is to ensure there is no negligence in the care of such persons, especially those from economically weaker sections. Well-to-do families have separate nurses or caretakers to take care of such persons, but the case is different in poor families, so this scheme will help them financially,” said a senior official.According to the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, “high support” refers to intensive assistance — physical, psychological, or otherwise — required by a person with benchmark disability for daily activities. It also includes support to help them take independent and informed decisions to access facilities and participate in education, employment, family and community life, and therapy.Officials said the scheme would mark a significant step in extending financial relief to those providing PwDs with crucial day-to-day care. “It’ll be the first such scheme in Delhi where caretakers will also receive financial assistance from govt,” said the official.
