In News:

The Union Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has recently inaugurated the 75th Pradhan Mantri Divyasha Kendra (PMDK) at the Government Medical College, Badaun, Uttar Pradesh, marking a significant milestone in India's efforts toward inclusive social welfare.

About PMDK

The Pradhan Mantri Divyasha Kendra (PMDK) is a flagship initiative of the Government of India aimed at delivering integrated rehabilitation and assistive services under one roof. It caters primarily to:

• Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), as identified under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
• Senior Citizens, especially those from economically weaker sections (EWS).

These centres offer comprehensive services including:

• Assessment and evaluation
• Counselling
• Distribution of assistive devices
• Post-distribution follow-up care

Institutional Framework

PMDKs operate under the aegis of the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, and are implemented by the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO), a Central Public Sector Undertaking under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD).

Schemes Implemented through PMDKs

• Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/Fitting of Aids and Appliances (ADIP Scheme): Aims to assist Divyangjan with suitable, durable, and scientifically manufactured aids and appliances.
• Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY): Focuses on providing free-of-cost assistive devices to senior citizens from BPL or economically weaker backgrounds.

Beneficiary-Oriented Impact

• With the inauguration of the latest centre in Badaun, the total number of operational PMDKs in the country has reached 75.
• These centres have collectively benefited over 1.4 lakh individuals, distributing assistive devices worth ?179.15 lakh.
• Devices offered include:
  • Tricycles, wheelchairs, walkers
  • Hearing aids and artificial limbs
  • Other mobility and sensory support equipment

Significance and Relevance

The PMDK initiative plays a crucial role in addressing the accessibility gap in health and welfare services for Divyangjan and elderly citizens. By establishing these centres at regional medical hubs, the government is:

• Reducing the travel burden and logistical challenges for beneficiaries.
• Ensuring dignified, timely, and localised support.
• Strengthening the implementation of constitutional and legal mandates under Articles 41 and 46, which call for state support to the vulnerable sections of society.