Unlike conventional welfare initiatives that primarily focus on financial assistance, Divyang Sahara Yojana emphasizes improving the quality of life of persons with disabilities through modern mobility aids, prosthetic devices, hearing assistance technologies, AI-enabled assistive products, and dedicated support services.
The Government of India has announced the Divyang Sahara Yojana in the Union Budget 2026–27 to improve access to modern assistive technology and rehabilitation support for persons with disabilities (Divyangjan) across the country. The scheme aims to make high-quality assistive devices more accessible, affordable, and technologically advanced, enabling beneficiaries to live with greater independence, mobility, and dignity.
The Government also plans to strengthen existing rehabilitation infrastructure by expanding the role of the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) and establishing Assistive Technology Marts (AT Marts), where beneficiaries can explore, compare, test, and obtain assistive devices according to their individual needs.
Although the scheme has been officially announced, detailed operational guidelines, beneficiary selection criteria, application procedures, and implementation timelines are yet to be released by the Government of India. Once notified, this article will be updated with the latest official information.
Latest Update (July 2026)
Current Status of Divyang Sahara Yojana
- ✅ Announced in Union Budget 2026–27
- ✅ Nationwide scheme proposed for persons with disabilities
- ✅ ALIMCO to play a major implementation role
- ✅ Assistive Technology Marts to be established
- ✅ Existing PM Divyasha Vayoshri Kendras to be strengthened
- ⏳ Official eligibility guidelines awaited
- ⏳ Online application portal not launched yet
- ⏳ Registration has not started
Divyang Sahara Yojana 2026 Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Divyang Sahara Yojana |
| Launched By | Government of India |
| Announced In | Union Budget 2026–27 |
| Ministry | Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment |
| Implementing Department | Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) |
| Primary Agency | ALIMCO |
| Beneficiaries | Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan/PwDs) |
| Benefit Type | Modern Assistive Devices & Rehabilitation Support |
| Application Mode | Yet to be Announced |
| Official Guidelines | Awaited |
| Coverage | Pan India |
What is Divyang Sahara Yojana?
Divyang Sahara Yojana is a newly announced central government initiative that aims to improve the availability of modern assistive technologies for persons with disabilities.
Many assistive devices available today are expensive and difficult to access, especially in rural and economically weaker regions. Through this scheme, the Government intends to bridge this gap by supporting research, manufacturing, distribution, customization, and maintenance of advanced assistive technologies.
Instead of focusing only on distributing equipment, the initiative aims to create an ecosystem where beneficiaries can receive assessment, device fitting, repairs, maintenance, and continuous support.
Main Objectives of Divyang Sahara Yojana
The Government has proposed several objectives under the scheme:
- Improve accessibility for persons with disabilities.
- Increase the availability of modern assistive devices.
- Promote independent living.
- Encourage the use of AI-enabled assistive technologies.
- Strengthen rehabilitation services across India.
- Improve education and employment opportunities.
- Enhance mobility and social inclusion.
- Reduce the financial burden of purchasing expensive assistive equipment.
Key Features of Divyang Sahara Yojana
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Modern Assistive Devices | Access to advanced mobility and rehabilitation equipment |
| AI Integration | Promotion of AI-enabled assistive technologies |
| ALIMCO Support | Manufacturing and innovation of assistive products |
| Assistive Technology Marts | Dedicated centres for device selection and support |
| PMD-VK Strengthening | Better assessment, repair and maintenance services |
| Pan-India Coverage | Expected nationwide implementation |
Major Benefits of Divyang Sahara Yojana
The scheme is expected to provide several long-term benefits to eligible beneficiaries.
Improved Accessibility
Modern assistive devices can significantly improve mobility and independence for persons with disabilities, enabling them to participate more actively in education, employment, and community life.
Affordable Assistive Devices
Many advanced mobility aids and prosthetic devices are expensive. Government support under this scheme is expected to make such technologies more affordable and accessible.
AI-Based Assistive Technology
The scheme encourages the adoption of Artificial Intelligence in assistive devices, enabling smarter mobility solutions and improved user experience.
Better Rehabilitation Support
Existing rehabilitation centres are expected to receive infrastructure upgrades, allowing beneficiaries to access better assessment, fitting, customization, and maintenance services.
Improved Quality of Life
By providing easier access to assistive technologies, the scheme aims to improve overall independence, dignity, confidence, and quality of life for persons with disabilities.
Expected Assistive Devices Under the Scheme
Although the Government has not yet released a final list, the following categories of devices are expected to receive support.
| Device Category | Expected Availability |
|---|---|
| Wheelchairs | Expected |
| Smart Wheelchairs | Expected |
| Artificial Limbs | Expected |
| Prosthetic Hands | Expected |
| Crutches | Expected |
| Walking Sticks | Expected |
| Smart Walking Canes | Expected |
| Hearing Aids | Expected |
| Orthotic Devices | Expected |
| Communication Devices | Expected |
| Vision Assistance Devices | Expected |
| AI-Based Assistive Products | Expected |
Note: The final list of eligible devices will be confirmed after the Government issues the official operational guidelines.
What are Assistive Technology Marts?
One of the most significant features of Divyang Sahara Yojana is the proposed establishment of Assistive Technology Marts (AT Marts).
These centres are expected to function as dedicated facilities where persons with disabilities can explore a wide range of assistive products before making a selection.
Unlike traditional distribution centres, AT Marts are expected to offer a more personalized experience.
Services Expected at AT Marts
- Display of modern assistive devices
- Product demonstrations
- Expert consultation
- Assessment of individual requirements
- Device fitting and customization
- Repair services
- Maintenance support
- Replacement assistance
- User guidance and training
These centres are expected to simplify the process of selecting assistive devices that best match each beneficiary’s specific disability and lifestyle.
Role of ALIMCO in Divyang Sahara Yojana
The Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) is expected to play a central role in implementing the scheme.
ALIMCO is a Government of India public sector enterprise that manufactures a wide range of assistive devices for persons with disabilities, including prosthetic limbs, wheelchairs, tricycles, crutches, walkers, hearing aids, and rehabilitation equipment.
Under Divyang Sahara Yojana, ALIMCO is expected to receive additional support to:
- Expand manufacturing capacity.
- Improve product quality.
- Promote research and innovation.
- Develop AI-enabled assistive devices.
- Enhance accessibility across India.
Why is This Scheme Important?
Millions of persons with disabilities continue to face challenges in accessing modern assistive technology due to high costs and limited availability.
Divyang Sahara Yojana has the potential to reduce these barriers by strengthening manufacturing, expanding rehabilitation infrastructure, and making advanced assistive devices easier to obtain.
If implemented effectively, the scheme could improve education, employment, mobility, and social participation for eligible beneficiaries while supporting a more inclusive society.
Eligibility Criteria for Divyang Sahara Yojana 2026
As of now, the Government of India has not released the detailed operational guidelines for Divyang Sahara Yojana. Therefore, the eligibility criteria mentioned below are based on the official announcement made during the Union Budget 2026–27 and information released by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD).
The final eligibility conditions may be revised once the Government publishes the official notification.
Who Can Apply?
The following applicants are expected to be eligible under the scheme:
| Eligibility Requirement | Status |
|---|---|
| Person with Disability (Divyangjan/PwD) | ✅ Expected |
| Valid Disability Certificate | ✅ Expected |
| Indian Citizen | ✅ Expected |
| Requires Assistive Device or Rehabilitation Support | ✅ Expected |
| Meets future scheme conditions (if notified) | ✅ Expected |
Who Should Apply?
This scheme is expected to benefit individuals who require assistive technologies to improve their daily lives.
Eligible applicants may include:
- Persons with locomotor disabilities
- Individuals requiring prosthetic limbs
- Wheelchair users
- Persons with hearing impairment
- Individuals requiring hearing aids
- Persons with visual impairment
- Individuals requiring communication devices
- Persons requiring orthotic support
- Children with disabilities (subject to official guidelines)
- Adults with permanent disabilities
- Persons requiring rehabilitation support
Who May Not Be Eligible?
Since detailed guidelines have not yet been issued, the Government has not officially released any exclusion list.
However, applicants may face rejection if:
| Possible Reason | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|
| Disability certificate not available | Verification may fail |
| Incomplete application | Rejection or delay |
| False information submitted | Application may be cancelled |
| Required medical assessment not completed | Verification pending |
| Documents do not match | Application may be rejected |
Important: These are expected conditions based on existing government practices. The official exclusion criteria will be known after the scheme notification.
Documents Required
The final document list will be confirmed after the Government releases the official guidelines. However, applicants may be required to submit the following documents.
| Document | Expected Requirement |
|---|---|
| Disability Certificate | ✅ Mandatory |
| Aadhaar Card | ✅ Expected |
| Identity Proof | ✅ Expected |
| Address Proof | ✅ Expected |
| Passport-size Photograph | ✅ Expected |
| Income Certificate (if applicable) | Expected |
| Medical Assessment Report | If required |
| Mobile Number | Expected |
| Bank Account Details (if applicable) | Expected |
Expected Application Process
The Government has not yet started registrations for Divyang Sahara Yojana. Based on the announcement, the application process may include the following steps.
Step 1 – Release of Official Guidelines
DEPwD will publish the complete operational guidelines for the scheme.
Step 2 – Registration Portal Launch
A dedicated online portal or offline registration mechanism may be introduced.
Step 3 – Application Submission
Eligible applicants will fill in their personal details and upload the required documents.
Step 4 – Disability Verification
The concerned authorities may verify the disability certificate and other supporting documents.
Step 5 – Medical Assessment (if required)
Some applicants may be referred for assessment to determine the most suitable assistive device.
Step 6 – Device Selection
Experts may recommend the most appropriate assistive device based on the applicant’s disability and functional needs.
Step 7 – Approval
Eligible beneficiaries will receive approval after successful verification.
Step 8 – Distribution and Support
The selected assistive device may be distributed through designated centres, followed by fitting, training, repair, and maintenance support where applicable.
How Assistive Devices May Be Provided
Unlike many welfare schemes that provide only financial assistance, Divyang Sahara Yojana is expected to focus on comprehensive rehabilitation support.
Beneficiaries may receive:
- Assessment of disability
- Device recommendation
- Product demonstration
- Custom fitting
- User training
- Maintenance services
- Repair support
- Replacement guidance
This approach aims to ensure that beneficiaries receive assistive devices suited to their individual needs rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.
Current Status of the Scheme
| Activity | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Scheme Announced | ✅ Yes |
| Union Budget Approval | ✅ Yes |
| Official Notification | Awaited |
| Detailed Guidelines | Awaited |
| Registration Started | ❌ No |
| Online Portal | ❌ Not Available |
| Last Date | Not Announced |
| Device Distribution | Not Started |
Important Points to Remember
- Divyang Sahara Yojana has already been announced by the Government of India.
- The scheme is expected to be implemented across the country.
- ALIMCO will play an important role in manufacturing and innovation.
- Assistive Technology Marts are proposed under the scheme.
- Existing PM Divyasha Vayoshri Kendras are expected to be strengthened.
- Registration has not started yet.
- Applicants should avoid relying on unofficial registration websites or social media posts claiming to offer early registration.
Tips for Applicants
To avoid delays once registrations begin, eligible persons may consider keeping the following ready:
✔ Updated Disability Certificate
✔ Aadhaar Card
✔ Identity Proof
✔ Address Proof
✔ Recent Passport-size Photograph
✔ Mobile Number
✔ Medical Records (if applicable)
✔ Income Certificate (if notified later)
Keeping these documents ready can help complete the application process more efficiently when the scheme officially opens.
Important Links
| Service | Link |
|---|---|
| Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) | https://depwd.gov.in |
| Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment | https://socialjustice.gov.in |
| Union Budget 2026–27 | https://www.indiabudget.gov.in |
| ALIMCO Official Website | https://alimco.in |
Contact Details
| Department | Information |
|---|---|
| Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) | Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment |
| Address | 5th Floor, Antyodaya Bhawan, CGO Complex, Lodhi Road, New Delhi – 110003 |
| Office Phone | 011-24365019 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Divyang Sahara Yojana?
Divyang Sahara Yojana is a Central Government initiative announced in the Union Budget 2026–27 to improve access to modern assistive devices and rehabilitation support for persons with disabilities.
2. Who announced the scheme?
The scheme was announced by the Government of India during the presentation of the Union Budget 2026–27.
3. Has the scheme officially started?
No. The scheme has been announced, but detailed implementation guidelines are still awaited.
4. Has online registration started?
No. The Government has not yet launched an official registration portal.
5. Who can apply?
Persons with disabilities who meet the eligibility conditions notified by the Government will be able to apply.
6. Is a Disability Certificate mandatory?
It is expected to be one of the primary documents required for verification.
7. What benefits will be provided?
The scheme is expected to provide access to modern assistive devices, AI-enabled technologies, rehabilitation support, and maintenance services.
8. What are Assistive Technology Marts?
Assistive Technology Marts are proposed centres where beneficiaries may be able to explore, compare, test, and receive suitable assistive devices along with expert guidance.
9. What is ALIMCO?
ALIMCO (Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India) is a Government of India public sector enterprise that manufactures assistive devices for persons with disabilities and is expected to play a major role in implementing the scheme.
10. Will AI-enabled devices be available?
Yes. The Government has indicated that AI-enabled assistive technologies will be promoted under the scheme.
11. Will the scheme be available across India?
Yes. Based on the Budget announcement, the scheme is expected to be implemented nationwide.
12. Are income limits announced?
No. Any income criteria, if applicable, will be notified in the official guidelines.
13. Is there any application fee?
No application fee has been announced by the Government.
14. Can children with disabilities benefit?
The detailed beneficiary categories are yet to be notified. Future guidelines will clarify eligibility for children.
15. Where can I get official updates?
Applicants should regularly visit the official websites of DEPwD, the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, and ALIMCO for authentic information.
Conclusion
Divyang Sahara Yojana has the potential to become one of India’s most significant initiatives for improving the lives of persons with disabilities. By promoting modern assistive technologies, strengthening rehabilitation services, and encouraging innovation through AI-enabled solutions, the Government aims to enhance accessibility, independence, and social inclusion for Divyangjan across the country.
While the scheme has been officially announced, important details such as eligibility criteria, registration procedures, implementation timelines, and the official application portal are still awaited. Interested applicants should rely only on official government sources for updates and avoid unofficial claims regarding registrations or benefits.
Disclaimer
This article is based on the announcements made in the Union Budget 2026–27 and information currently available from official government sources. As the detailed operational guidelines for Divyang Sahara Yojana have not yet been released, some sections—such as eligibility, documents, and the application process—describe the expected framework based on the announcement and existing government practices. The article will be updated once the Government of India issues the official notification.