A new year gift by the Delhi Govt for Persons with Disabilities

OFFICE OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE MINISTER,
GOVT OF NCT OF DELHI

01/01/2018
New Delhi
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The wait is over. A new year gift by the Delhi Govt which has notified disability rules to provide relief to the specially-abled persons in the capital, Delhi rules under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act 2016 with the necessary amendments have been notified on December 28, 2018.

To ensure an inclusive environment for the differently-abled, scholastic & practical efforts were pouring in since long in the preparation of these rules prior to notification.

Yet, the delay was since Delhi does not fall into the category of ‘state’ as mentioned in the rules and the government had to obtain clearance from the LG to approach the MHA.

Section 101 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, confers power upon the state government to make such rules under the said act. However, the term, ‘state government’ has not been defined in the RPwD act 2016. The NCT of Delhi being considers a UT, a specific delegation of the powers is required for exercise of such powers.

However, since the notification is done, now the differently-abled can avail the benefits and concessions in education, health services, loan facilities, jobs and any such governmental schemes.

Delhi Govt. is presently working towards formation of a dedicated department for Persons with Disabilities. Public consultation & suggestions are invited from the different stakeholders and public. The Government will also upload the draft policy for department formation along with the draft organisational structure of the department.

The DSW is developing new schemes for PwD requiring high-support needs and institutes for rehabilitation of PwD keeping in mind the new legislation which now covers 21 categories up from earlier 7 disabilities.