Divyang Sahara Yojana is a Central Government initiative announced in the Union Budget 2026-27 by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to improve access to modern assistive technologies for Divyangjan across India. The scheme strengthens ALIMCO, expands 100 PM Divyasha Vayoshri Kendras (PMDVKs), and sets up Assistive Technology Marts as modern retail-style centres where Divyangjan can see, try, and purchase assistive devices. For scheme updates, visit the official Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities portal.
Divyang Sahara Yojana Highlights | |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Divyang Sahara Yojana |
| Announced In | Union Budget 2026-27 |
| Announcement Date | 1 February 2026 |
| Announced By | Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman |
| Ministry | Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment |
| Department | Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) |
| Implementing Agency | Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) |
| Scheme Type | Assistive Technology Access and Ecosystem Strengthening Scheme |
| Not a | Cash Transfer, DBT, or Monthly Pension Scheme |
| Main Objective | Improve access to modern high-quality assistive devices for all eligible Divyangjan across India |
| Proposal 1 | Support ALIMCO to scale up production with AI integration and R&D investment |
| Proposal 2 | Strengthen existing 100 PM Divyasha Vayoshri Kendras (PMDVKs) across all States and UTs |
| Proposal 3 | Set up Assistive Technology Marts as modern retail-style centres for Divyangjan |
| Assistive Devices Covered | Mobility aids, low-vision devices, low-hearing devices, e-Braille readers, smart hearing instruments, cognitive-assistive solutions |
| ALIMCO Headquarters | Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh |
| ALIMCO Centers | 6 Auxiliary Production Centres, 7 Regional Marketing Centres, 100 PMDVKs across India |
| PMDK Coverage | One PMDK every 100 km radius across all States and UTs |
| Companion Scheme | Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana, Skill training in IT, AVGC, Hospitality sectors |
| PM Webinar Highlight | PM Modi highlighted the scheme at the post-budget webinar on 10 March 2026 |
| Existing Scheme Strengthened | ADIP Scheme (Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/Fitting of Aids/Appliances) since 1981 |
| ADIP Income Limit | Monthly income not exceeding Rs. 30,000 from all sources |
| ADIP Disability Requirement | Minimum 40% benchmark disability with a valid UDID Card |
| Application Status | Implementation guidelines awaited from DEPwD |
| ALIMCO Toll-Free | 1800 180 5129 |
| ALIMCO Email | service@alimco.in |
| Official Department Portal | disabilityaffairs.gov.in |
| ALIMCO Portal | alimco.in |
Introduction of Divyang Sahara Yojana: A Brief Insight
For millions of persons with disabilities in India, access to the right assistive device can completely transform daily life. A wheelchair, a hearing aid, a smart cane, or an e-Braille reader can mean the difference between dependence and independent living. But high costs, import dependence, and poor last-mile availability have kept quality assistive devices out of reach for most Divyangjan. Divyang Sahara Yojana directly addresses this problem.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the Divyang Sahara Yojana in the Union Budget 2026-27 on 1 February 2026. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, through the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) implements the scheme with ALIMCO (Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India) as the primary implementing agency. ALIMCO is the only manufacturing company in India producing all types of assistive devices under one roof, headquartered in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, with 6 Auxiliary Production Centres, 7 Regional Marketing Centres, and 100 PM Divyasha Vayoshri Kendras (PMDVKs) operational across all States and UTs.
The scheme works through three key proposals. First, the government supports ALIMCO to scale up production of high-quality assistive devices and integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced R&D into product design. Second, the Government strengthens the existing 100 PMDVKs positioned every 100 km radius across India, providing integrated assessment, counselling, and device distribution services under one roof. Third, the Government sets up Assistive Technology Marts as modern retail-style centres where Divyangjan and senior citizens can see, try, and purchase assistive products with dignity and professional counselling. The broader goals are to reduce import dependence, spur domestic manufacturing, and create opportunities for Indian startups and MSMEs in assistive technology.
One important clarification: Divyang Sahara Yojana is not a cash transfer or DBT scheme. Most competitor websites incorrectly present it as a monthly financial assistance scheme. It is purely an assistive technology access and ecosystem-strengthening scheme. Implementation guidelines and the official application process are yet to be released by DEPwD. Until then, eligible Divyangjan can access assistive devices through the existing ADIP Scheme at the nearest ALIMCO centre with UDID Card, Disability Certificate, and Income Certificate confirming monthly income below Rs. 30,000.
Divyangjan, looking for skill development and livelihood support alongside assistive device access, can explore the Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana, the companion scheme announced in the same Budget 2026-27, which provides industry-relevant, customised skill training in IT, AVGC, Hospitality, and Food and Beverages sectors for dignified livelihood opportunities. Divyangjan needing financial support for self-employment can additionally explore the PM-DAKSH Yojana which provides free skill training to SC, OBC, and economically backward communities including persons with disabilities.
Persons with disabilities, caregivers, NGOs working with Divyangjan, and anyone looking for more welfare schemes, assistive device programmes, skill development initiatives, and rehabilitation support for Divyangjan can also explore other available initiatives under our Central Government Schemes List section.
Benefits Provided Under Divyang Sahara Yojana
Divyang Sahara Yojana focuses on improving access to modern assistive technologies and strengthening the assistive device ecosystem for Divyangjan across India.
Assistive Device Access
- The government improves access to modern, high-quality assistive devices tailored to the diverse functional needs of Divyangjan
- Devices covered include mobility aids, low-vision devices, low-hearing devices, e-Braille readers, smart hearing instruments, and cognitive-assistive solutions
- The government positions ALIMCO as a national hub for innovation and quality in assistive technology to ensure better availability across India
Technology and Research Development
- The government supports ALIMCO to invest in Research and Development for new and advanced assistive technologies
- Government integrates Artificial Intelligence (AI) into assistive device design and service delivery
- The government promotes domestic manufacturing of assistive devices to reduce import dependence and spur Indian startups and MSMEs in this sector
PM Divyasha Vayoshri Kendras (PMDVKs)
- Government strengthens existing 100 PMDVKs operational across all States and UTs in India
- Each PMDK provides integrated services, including assessment, evaluation, counselling, device distribution, and post-distribution care under one roof
- PMDVKs are positioned every 100 km radius across India to ensure last-mile access for Divyangjan
Assistive Technology Marts
- The government sets up Assistive Technology Marts as modern retail-style centres where Divyangjan and senior citizens can see, try, and purchase assistive products
- These marts provide Divyangjan with dignified choice, informed access, and professional counselling before selecting a device
- Assistive Technology Marts bridge the last-mile gap between cutting-edge assistive technology and end users
Broader Social Benefits
- The scheme supports independent living for Divyangjan by improving access to daily-use assistive products
- The scheme improves education and employment participation for persons with disabilities
- Scheme strengthens the social and economic inclusion of Divyangjan across India
- The scheme supports the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 by ensuring Divyangjan are recognised as equal stakeholders
How Divyang Sahara Yojana Is Different from the ADIP Scheme
Many readers confuse Divyang Sahara Yojana with the ADIP Scheme. Both relate to assistive devices for Divyangjan but serve different purposes at different levels.
| Feature | ADIP Scheme | Divyang Sahara Yojana |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/Fitting of Aids/Appliances | Divyang Sahara Yojana |
| Since | 1981 | Announced Budget 2026-27 |
| Nature | Direct benefit scheme, free assistive devices to eligible individuals | Ecosystem strengthening scheme improves access, manufacturing, and technology |
| Who Benefits Directly | Individual Divyangjan with income below Rs. 30,000 and a minimum 40% disability | All Divyangjan through better availability, technology, and access to infrastructure |
| Income Limit | Monthly income must not exceed Rs. 30,000 | No income limit announced yet |
| Disability Requirement | Minimum 40% benchmark disability with a valid UDID Card | Full eligibility framework not yet notified |
| Application Process | Active – apply through the nearest ALIMCO centre or ADIP portal | Implementation guidelines awaited from DEPwD |
| Focus | Free distribution of assistive devices at the individual level | AI integration, R&D, ALIMCO strengthening, Assistive Technology Marts |
| Implementing Agency | ALIMCO and other implementing agencies under DEPwD | ALIMCO under DEPwD |
| Official Page | View ADIP Scheme | View PIB Announcement |
Important: Divyang Sahara Yojana does not replace the ADIP Scheme. It strengthens and expands the entire assistive technology ecosystem so that more Divyangjan can benefit from better quality and more modern devices.
Eligibility Conditions Required to be Fulfilled
The government has not yet released a detailed eligibility framework for the Divyang Sahara Yojana. Complete eligibility conditions will be notified by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities after the implementation guidelines are released. Based on the existing ADIP Scheme framework, which Divyang Sahara Yojana strengthens, the following eligibility conditions are expected to apply.
Expected Eligibility Conditions
- Applicant must be a person with disability (Divyangjan) as recognised under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act 2016
- Applicant must hold a valid Disability Certificate issued by a competent medical authority
- Applicant must possess a valid UDID Card (Unique Disability Identity Card) wherever applicable
- Applicant must require an assistive device, rehabilitation support, or accessibility aid as per their disability type and functional need
- Applicant must be a resident of India
- Additional eligibility conditions, as prescribed by DEPwD in the official implementation guidelines, will apply
For Existing ADIP Scheme Benefits (Currently Operational)
- Monthly income must not exceed Rs. 30,000 per month from all sources
- Must hold a valid UDID Card with minimum 40% benchmark disability
- For Motorised Tricycle or Motorised Wheelchair: minimum 80% disability required
Documents Required to be Attached
Government of India has not yet released a detailed official document checklist for the Divyang Sahara Yojana. Final document requirements will be confirmed only after the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities releases the complete implementation guidelines. Based on the existing ADIP Scheme framework, which Divyang Sahara Yojana strengthens, the following documents are likely to be required.
- Aadhaar Card of the applicant
- Disability Certificate issued by a competent medical authority
- UDID Card (Unique Disability Identity Card) wherever applicable
- Address proof confirming residence in India
- Income proof confirming monthly income below Rs. 30,000 for the ADIP Scheme benefits
- Recent passport size photograph
- Mobile number linked with Aadhaar
- Any additional documents as notified by DEPwD in the official implementation guidelines
Important: The above list is indicative based on existing scheme frameworks. Applicants must wait for the official implementation guidelines from the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities before preparing documents for this scheme.
How Beneficiaries Can Apply to Avail the Benefit of this Scheme
Divyang Sahara Yojana was announced in the Union Budget 2026-27. The Government of India is currently developing the implementation framework. Detailed application guidelines and operational procedures are yet to be notified by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities.
Current Status of Application Process
- Budget announcement completed on 1 February 2026
- Implementation framework under development by DEPwD
- Detailed operational guidelines have not yet been released
- The official application process has not yet been notified
- Assistive Technology Marts setup process initiated
Existing ADIP Scheme (Currently Operational)
Until the Divyang Sahara Yojana guidelines are officially released, eligible Divyangjan can currently access assistive devices through the existing ADIP Scheme, which Divyang Sahara Yojana strengthens and expands.
Step 1: Visit the official ADIP Scheme page at disabilityaffairs.gov.in for complete scheme details and the list of implementing agencies.
Step 2: Register to avail assistive devices through walk-in at any of the nearest ALIMCO centres, including AAPCs, RMCs, PMDKs, or AASRA centres. Contact ALIMCO Toll Free 1800 180 5129 to locate the nearest centre.
Step 3: Carry required documents, including Aadhaar Card, UDID Card or enrollment proof, Disability Certificate, and Income Certificate confirming monthly income does not exceed Rs. 30,000 per month from all sources.
Step 4: Get an assessment done at the centre. ALIMCO verifies eligibility and processes device distribution after assessment and counselling.
Step 5: Divyangjan must regularly visit disabilityaffairs.gov.in and alimco.in for official updates on the Divyang Sahara Yojana application process once guidelines are released.
Important Links Available
- PIB Official Announcement, Divyang Sahara Yojana, Union Budget 2026-27.
- PIB Release, ALIMCO Role in Divyang Sahara Yojana, Budget 2026-27.
- ADIP Scheme Official Page, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities.
- ADIP Scheme and RVY Scheme Details, ALIMCO Official Portal.
- Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) Official Portal.
- Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Government of India.
- Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India.
Contact Details in Case of Help Needed
Divyangjan seeking information about Divyang Sahara Yojana, assistive devices, ADIP Scheme, or nearest PMDK location can contact through the following official channels.
- ALIMCO Toll Free: 1800 180 5129
- ALIMCO WhatsApp: +91 9519268833 / +91 9519538833
- ALIMCO Email: service@alimco.in
- Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO)
G.T. Road, Naramau,
Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 209217 - For scheme policy queries: Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, disabilityaffairs.gov.in
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What is Divyang Sahara Yojana?
Ans. Divyang Sahara Yojana is a new Central Government initiative announced in the Union Budget 2026-27 by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to improve access to modern assistive technologies for persons with disabilities. The scheme strengthens ALIMCO, expands PM Divyasha Vayoshri Kendras, and sets up Assistive Technology Marts across India.
Q. Is Divyang Sahara Yojana a cash transfer or DBT scheme?
Ans. No. Divyang Sahara Yojana is not a cash transfer or DBT scheme. It focuses on improving access to modern assistive devices, strengthening ALIMCO manufacturing, integrating AI in assistive technology, and setting up Assistive Technology Marts for Divyangjan.
Q. When was Divyang Sahara Yojana announced?
Ans. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the Divyang Sahara Yojana in the Union Budget 2026-27 presented in Parliament on 1 February 2026.
Q. Which ministry implements Divyang Sahara Yojana?
Ans. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, through the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) implements the scheme. ALIMCO is the primary implementing agency.
Q. What is ALIMCO and what is its role under this scheme?
Ans. ALIMCO (Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India) is a Central Public Sector Enterprise under DEPwD headquartered in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. It is the only manufacturing company in India producing all types of assistive devices under one roof. Under Divyang Sahara Yojana, the Government positions ALIMCO as a national hub for innovation in assistive technology with enhanced R&D and AI integration.
Q. What assistive devices does the scheme cover?
Ans. The scheme covers mobility aids, low-vision devices, low-hearing devices, e-Braille readers, smart hearing instruments, cognitive-assistive solutions, orthotic and prosthetic appliances, and other devices tailored to diverse disability needs.
Q. What are PM Divyasha Vayoshri Kendras?
Ans. PM Divyasha Vayoshri Kendras (PMDVKs) are integrated service centres operated by ALIMCO across India providing assessment, counselling, device distribution, and post-distribution care for Divyangjan and senior citizens. ALIMCO currently operates 100 PMDVKs positioned every 100 km radius across all States and UTs.
Q. What are Assistive Technology Marts?
Ans. Assistive Technology Marts are modern retail-style centres planned under Divyang Sahara Yojana where Divyangjan and senior citizens can see, try, and purchase assistive products with dignity, informed choice, and professional counselling before selecting a device.
Q. What is the companion scheme announced alongside Divyang Sahara Yojana?
Ans. Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana is the companion scheme announced on the same day in the Budget 2026-27. It provides industry-relevant, customised skill training to Divyangjan in IT, AVGC, Hospitality, and Food and Beverages sectors for dignified livelihood opportunities.
Q. Has the application process for Divyang Sahara Yojana started?
Ans. No. The government is currently developing the implementation framework. Detailed operational guidelines and the application process are yet to be notified by DEPwD. Divyangjan must regularly visit disabilityaffairs.gov.in for official updates.
Q. What is the ADIP Scheme and how does it relate to Divyang Sahara Yojana?
Ans. The ADIP (Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/Fitting of Aids/Appliances) Scheme is an existing scheme in operation since 1981 through which ALIMCO provides free assistive devices to eligible Divyangjan. Divyang Sahara Yojana strengthens and expands the ADIP ecosystem with modern technology and better infrastructure.
Q. Who is eligible for ADIP Scheme benefits currently?
Ans. Divyangjan with a valid UDID Card showing minimum 40% benchmark disability and a monthly income not exceeding Rs. 30,000 from all sources are eligible under the ADIP Scheme. For a motorised tricycle or Motorized Wheelchair, a minimum 80% disability is required.
Q. How can Divyangjan access assistive devices while the Divyang Sahara Yojana guidelines are awaited?
Ans. Eligible Divyangjan can currently approach any nearest ALIMCO centre, including AAPCs, RMCs, PMDVKs, or AASRA centres with Aadhaar Card, UDID Card, Disability Certificate, and Income Certificate. They can also visit the ADIP Scheme official page at disabilityaffairs.gov.in for details.
Q. Did PM Modi highlight this scheme?
Ans. Yes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the Divyang Sahara Yojana at the post-budget webinar held on 10 March 2026, highlighting inclusive innovation and Jan Bhagidari under the scheme.
Tabassum is a government schemes researcher and writer with 5 years of experience tracking Central and State welfare programmes across India. She has covered 500+ schemes spanning agriculture, women welfare, education, and housing, helping lakhs of beneficiaries understand their entitlements in simple language.