Divyang Sahara Yojana

Scheme Introduction: A Brief Overview

Assistive devices play an important role in helping persons with disabilities live independently, access education and employment opportunities, and participate fully in society. However, advanced assistive technologies are often expensive or difficult to access, particularly in many parts of the country.

To address this gap, the Government of India announced the Divyang Sahara Yojana in the Union Budget 2026–27. The initiative aims to improve the availability of modern assistive devices and strengthen support services for eligible Divyangjan across India.

The scheme proposes financial and technological support to the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) for expanding production capacity, improving product quality, and encouraging innovation through research, development, and Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based solutions.

A key feature of the initiative is the proposed establishment of Assistive Technology Marts (AT Marts). These centres are envisioned as user-friendly retail spaces where individuals can explore, compare, and select assistive products according to their specific requirements. In addition, existing Pradhan Mantri Divyasha Vayoshri Kendras (PMD-VKs) are expected to be strengthened to provide assessment, fitting, repair, maintenance, and other support services.

Through this initiative, the Government seeks to improve accessibility, mobility, and overall quality of life for persons with disabilities by making modern assistive technology more accessible and easier to obtain.

At present, the scheme remains at the announcement stage, and detailed operational guidelines, eligibility criteria, and application procedures are awaited from the Government of India.

Alongside the Divyang Sahara Yojana, the Government of India has also announced the Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana in the Union Budget 2026–27. While Divyang Sahara Yojana focuses on improving access to assistive technologies and support services, the Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana aims to enhance employment opportunities through industry-relevant skill training. Interested readers can learn more about the training-focused initiative through the link provided below.

Scheme Benefits

• Affordable access to modern assistive devices for eligible Divyangjan.
• Availability of advanced mobility aids, prosthetics, hearing devices, and adaptive technologies.
• Improved quality and availability of assistive products through support to ALIMCO.
• Promotion of AI-enabled and technology-driven assistive devices.
• Assistive Technology Marts where beneficiaries can see, test, and select suitable products.
• Upgraded PMD-VKs offering assessment, customisation, repair, and maintenance services.
• Enhanced accessibility, mobility, independence, and quality of life for persons with disabilities.

Eligibility Requirements

Based on the Union Budget 2026–27 announcement, the following eligibility conditions are expected:

• Applicant must be a person with disability (Divyangjan/PwD).
• Applicant should possess a valid Disability Certificate.
• Applicant should require assistive devices or related support services.
• Applicant should satisfy any additional conditions notified under the scheme guidelines.

Note: Detailed eligibility criteria, including income limits, disability categories, age requirements, and other conditions, will be officially notified after the release of the scheme guidelines.

Documents That May Be Required

Applicants may be asked to provide:

• Disability Certificate.
• Aadhaar Card or any other government-issued identity proof.
• Proof of residence.
• Recent passport-size photograph.
• Income Certificate (if prescribed under the final guidelines).
• Medical records or assessment reports, where required.

Note: The final list of documents will be confirmed after official guidelines are issued.

How the Scheme Is Expected to Work

The Government has not yet released the operational framework of the scheme. However, the implementation process may include:

• Publication of detailed scheme guidelines.
• Identification of eligible beneficiaries.
• Assessment of assistive technology requirements.
• Submission and verification of applications and documents.
• Selection of appropriate assistive devices.
• Distribution, fitting, or customisation of devices.
• Post-distribution support, repairs, and maintenance through designated centres.
• Applicants should follow official announcements from DEPwD for future updates.
   

Important Conditions and Current Status

• The scheme was announced in the Union Budget 2026-27.
• It aims to improve access to assistive technology for persons with disabilities.
• The Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) will play a key role in manufacturing and innovation activities under the scheme.
• Assistive Technology Marts are proposed as dedicated centers for assistive products.
• Existing PM Divyasha Vayoshri Kendras (PMD-VKs) will be strengthened to provide support services.
• No online application portal has been launched yet.
• Detailed eligibility norms, implementation guidelines, and timelines are awaited.
• The scheme is expected to be implemented across India rather than through state-wise allocations.

Responsible Department

• Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD)
• Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
• Government of India

Relevant Links

• Announcement of Divyang Sahara Yojana
• Divyang Sahara Yojana Rajya Sabha Reply April-2026.pdf
• Official Website of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD)
• Ministry Website of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment

Contact Information

Scheme-specific contact details have not been announced yet.

• General Department Contact
  • Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD)
  • Address: 5th Floor, Antyodaya Bhawan, CGO Complex, Lodhi Road, New Delhi - 110003
  • Phone Number : 24365019 (Office)
  • Contact Details of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment