AP Govt Launches ‘Divyang Shakti’ Scheme

Source: The Indian Express

Relevance: GS Paper II – Social Justice and Welfare Schemes for Vulnerable Sections.

Important Keywords for Prelims and Mains

For Prelims:

Divyang Shakti Scheme, Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), Free Bus Travel, Disability Percentage Criteria, Social Welfare Scheme, Public Transport Accessibility

For Mains:

Inclusive Development, Social Justice, Welfare of Differently-Abled Persons, Accessibility and Mobility Rights, State Welfare Policies, Empowerment of Vulnerable Sections

Why in News?

The Andhra Pradesh government has launched the ‘Divyang Shakti Scheme’ to provide free bus travel for differently-abled citizens.
The initiative aims to promote equal opportunities, independence, and social inclusion for persons with disabilities.

Key Features of the Scheme

Provides free bus travel for eligible persons with disabilities.
Covers multiple categories of public transport, including:
- City Ordinary buses
- Metro Express buses
- Palle Velugu buses
- Ultra Palle Velugu buses
- Express buses
Allows helpers/assistants to accompany beneficiaries, ensuring ease of travel.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicable to individuals with:
- more than 40% disability
Covers 21 categories of disabilities.

Implementation and Coverage

Expected to benefit around 12.76 lakh persons across the state.
The government has allocated approximately ₹207 crore annually for the scheme.

Significance

1. Promotes Inclusive Development

Enhances mobility and accessibility for persons with disabilities.
Ensures their participation in social and economic activities.

2. Supports Social Justice

Aligns with constitutional values of equality and dignity.
Reduces barriers faced by differently-abled persons in daily life.

3. Economic Relief

Reduces transportation costs for vulnerable households.
Encourages access to:
- education
- healthcare
- employment opportunities

4. Empowerment and Independence

Improves confidence and self-reliance among beneficiaries.

Challenges / Concerns

Ensuring proper identification and certification of beneficiaries.
Financial burden on state exchequer for long-term sustainability.
Need for accessible infrastructure (ramps, low-floor buses).
Effective monitoring to prevent misuse.

Way Forward

Strengthen digital verification systems for beneficiaries.
Improve accessible transport infrastructure.
Integrate scheme with other disability welfare programmes.
Ensure awareness and outreach for maximum coverage.

Conclusion

The Divyang Shakti Scheme represents a significant step towards inclusive governance and social equity. By improving mobility for persons with disabilities, it contributes to their empowerment and participation in society, reinforcing the vision of accessible and inclusive development.