Government Unveils Divyangjan Kaushal and Sahara Yojanas in Budget 2026 to Empower Persons with Disabilities
In a significant move to enhance the quality of life for persons with disabilities (PwDs), the government announced the launch of two key schemes during the Union Budget 2026-27 presentation on Sunday. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced the Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana and the Divyang Sahara Yojana, aimed at providing dignified livelihood opportunities and timely access to assistive devices, respectively.
Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana: Fostering Livelihood Through Customized Training
Finance Minister Sitharaman emphasized that the Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana is designed to address the fundamental need for sustainable employment among PwDs. She highlighted that sectors such as Information Technology (IT), animation, visual effects, gaming and comics (AVGC), and hospitality offer task-oriented and process-driven roles that are particularly suitable for individuals with disabilities.
"We will ensure dignified livelihood opportunities through industry-relevant and customised training specific to each 'divyang' group," Sitharaman stated. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between skill development and market demands, empowering PwDs to secure meaningful employment in growing industries.
Divyang Sahara Yojana: Enhancing Access to Assistive Devices
The Divyang Sahara Yojana focuses on another critical aspect of disability empowerment: timely access to high-quality assistive devices. Sitharaman noted that this is a fundamental need for all eligible divyangjans (persons with disabilities). To support this scheme, the government plans to bolster the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (Alimco).
"I propose to support Alimco to scale up production of assistive devices, invest in research and development and AI integration," the Finance Minister announced. This support is intended to strengthen the existing PM Divyasha Kendras and facilitate the establishment of assistive technology marts. These marts will function as modern retail-style centers where divyangjans and senior citizens can explore, test, and purchase assistive products conveniently.
Budgetary Allocations and Infrastructure Development
A detailed look at the budgetary allocations for 2026-27 reveals substantial financial commitments to these initiatives. The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities has been assigned a total of Rs 1,669 crore. Within this allocation:
- Rs 200 crore has been earmarked for the Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana.
- Rs 100 crore is allocated for the Divyangjan Sahara Yojana.
Additionally, Rs 375 crore has been set aside for assistance to PwDs in purchasing and fitting aids and appliances. This marks an increase from the previous fiscal year, where the budget estimates for this scheme were Rs 316 crore, with revised estimates standing at Rs 330 crore. Overall, the department's allocation has risen from Rs 1,275 crore in the 2025-26 budget estimates to Rs 1,291 crore in revised estimates for the current fiscal year.
Expanding Infrastructure: PM Divyasha Kendras and Assistive Technology Marts
Currently, there are 100 PM Divyasha Kendras operational across the country, serving as one-stop centers for eligible beneficiaries to access assistive devices. Alimco is actively working on a strategic plan to expand this network by setting up 80 assistive technology marts in the near future. These marts aim to revolutionize the retail experience for assistive products, making them more accessible and user-friendly.
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the research and development of assistive devices is expected to enhance their functionality and customization, further supporting the independence and well-being of persons with disabilities.
These initiatives underscore the government's commitment to creating an inclusive society where persons with disabilities have equal opportunities for growth and development. By addressing both livelihood and accessibility needs, the Divyangjan Kaushal and Sahara Yojanas represent a holistic approach to disability empowerment in India.
