BMC Launches Financial Aid Scheme for Differently-Abled under 'Dharmveer Anand Dighe Divyang Arthik Sahayata Yojana'

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has introduced a financial assistance scheme aimed at supporting differently-abled persons. Around 60,000 individuals with 40% to 80% disability will receive monetary aid ranging from Rs 6,000 to Rs 18,000 every six months for five years. The civic body has allocated Rs 111.83 crore for the initiative.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has unveiled a new initiative, the 'Dharmveer Anand Dighe Divyang Arthik Sahayata Yojana', to provide crucial financial support to differently-abled persons. The scheme is set to benefit approximately 60,000 individuals with disabilities ranging from 40% to 80%, offering them financial aid between Rs 6,000 to Rs 18,000 every six months for the next five years, according to an official statement released Wednesday.

The BMC plans to distribute monthly funds of Rs 1,000 to those with 40% disability and Rs 3,000 to those with 80% disability. This comprehensive support is extended to persons with disabilities such as blindness, deafness, orthopedic challenges, mental retardation, and other categories. A total budget of Rs 111.83 crore has been allocated by the civic body for the scheme over the next five years.

Initiated by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the scheme aims to uplift the standard of living of differently-abled individuals. To avail of the benefits, applicants must reside within BMC limits and possess a yellow or blue Universal ID card (UDID CARD). The application process has commenced, with forms available for download on the BMC website. Named after the late Shiv Sena leader Anand Dighe, a mentor to Chief Minister Shinde, this initiative highlights the BMC's commitment to social welfare under the state's control pending civic elections.

(With inputs from agencies.)