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Persons with Disabilities

Persons with Disabilities (Social Justice).

Syllabus: UPSC Mains GS2: welfare schemes, vulnerable sections, health, education, poverty, hunger

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GS2 · Welfare schemes

Cabinet extends NSAP to 2030-31 and renames it Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana

On 14 October 2026 the Union Cabinet extended the National Social Assistance Programme for five years, 2026-27 to 2030-31, with Rs. 53,428 crore. It is renamed Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana. The disability pension now needs 40% benchmark disability instead of 80%, starts from birth, and pays Rs. 375 or Rs. 625 a month.

UPSC angle: Prelims: launch date, new names, outlay, 40% benchmark, Article 41. · Mains GS-II: welfare schemes for vulnerable sections; DPSPs; rights of persons with disabilities.

14 Oct 2026
GS2 · Disability rights

BIS publishes six standards for priority assistive products

The Bureau of Indian Standards has published standards for priority assistive products listed in ICMR's National List of Essential Assistive Products (NLEAP). They cover elbow crutches, walking sticks, multi-leg sticks, tactile guide maps, braille on signage and portable ramps. Two, on walking sticks and portable ramps, are indigenous standards.

UPSC angle: Prelims: RPwD Act.

1 May 2026
GS2 · Disability rights

UDID card holders can travel in unreserved Divyangjan coaches

Indian Railways clarified that persons with disabilities holding a valid Unique Disability ID (UDID) card can travel in unreserved Divyangjan coaches (SLRD/LSLRD) of Mail/Express trains if they hold valid travel authority. Those with railway concessional-fare facility are similarly treated as bona fide passengers. Unauthorised use will draw action under the Railway Act, 1989.

UPSC angle: Prelims: UDID.

20 Apr 2026