PANAJI
Goa Government will launch a first-of-its-kind comprehensive survey of Persons with Disabilities (PwD) to facilitate the development of inclusive policies and enhance service provisions.
Addressing a press conference, Minister for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Subhash Phal Desai said that through this survey the government wants to understand the problems faced by PwDs and frame policies to provide them with employment and prepare plans for their future.
In line with the provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, the government intends to conduct an across-the-board and time-bound survey covering all 21 disabilities. The survey is expected to commence in next three to four months.
Phal Desai said that for the first time, Goa will carry out a detailed survey with 100+ parameters to identify the exact number and types of disabilities.
Phal Desai said that with the enactment of Right to Disabilities Act 2016, the scope has been widened to include 21 disabilities. He said that currently the State relies on 2011 census data, as per which only seven disabilities have been identified.
The Minister said that the department has already floated the tender and the survey will commence after three to four months.
"The survey is crucial for inclusive growth and development. We have to frame the welfare policies and take policy decisions to ensure inclusive growth," he said.
The Department for empowerment of person with disabilities urges families of PwD to cooperate, as the data will help improve and allocate welfare schemes effectively.
Meanwhile, the government will organise assessment camps across all talukas from May 20 to June 2 to identify beneficiaries for free distribution of aids and appliances under the ADIP scheme.
To avail the benefit, the person should have at least 40% disability and possess UDID (Unique Disability Identity Card) and a valid income proof of earning below Rs 22,500 per month, Aadhaar card and address proof.
The person should not have received any aid for the past three years, and if received, similar assistive equipment would not be given, provided there is a change in the percentage of disability. The disabilities that are covered are loco motor, visual impairment, hearing impairment and intellectual and developmental disabilities.
