A choice-based system of providing assistive devices for differently-abled persons is in vogue in Tamil Nadu since January. A G.O. in this regard was issued on January 7 on the lines of an announcement made by Minister for Finance and Human Resources Management to implement the scheme from 2021-22 while presenting a revised budget on the floor of the State Legislative Assembly on August 13 last.
A sum of ₹9.50 crore was sanctioned for providing aid equipment to disabled persons during the first phase.
Under the first phase, beneficiaries could opt for getting five aid equipment — three-wheeled cycles, wheelchairs, hearing aids, battery-operated sewing machines and wheelchairs even if they are not government-assured models.
If the equipment developed by private parties cost more than the government assured models, either the beneficiary or a sponsoring entity could bear the additional cost.
However, the technical committee of the Department for the Welfare of the Differently Abled would permit the beneficiaries to choose the models they wish to obtain under this scheme.
Once the beneficiary pays the additional cost within the prescribed time limit, the equipment would be provided.
