Disability Welfare in Budget 2026: Key Schemes and Allocation Analysis

Context

The Union government plans to launch two new schemes to improve livelihood opportunities and access to assistive technology for persons with disabilities.

New Schemes Announced

• Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana
  • Focus: Training persons with disabilities for “dignified livelihood opportunities”
  • Objective: Skill development and employment readiness
• Divyang Sahara Yojana
  • Focus: Providing “timely access” to assistive devices
  • Mechanism: Setting up modern retail-style Assistive Technology Marts across the country

Government Position

National Platform for the Rights of the Disabled (NPRD)

• Claims the Budget follows an “exclusionary trajectory”
• Alleges it violates disability rights and entrenches inequality

Budget Allocation

The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities received a higher allocation.

• ₹1,669.72 crore allocated for 2026–27
• About 30% increase over current fiscal’s revised estimates
• ₹300 crore allocation for the two new schemes

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