HPAS 2025 Mains GS-2 Question 20
Programmes and policies of the Himachal Pradesh Government for the welfare of differently-abled persons are far from satisfactory. Do you agree with this view?
Solution:
The welfare of differently-abled persons (Divyangjan) is a critical barometer of inclusive governance. While Himachal Pradesh has established a robust legislative and schematic framework, its implementation remains a “work in progress.” A balanced view suggests that while the intent is present, the impact is often hindered by structural and administrative barriers.
1. Positive Initiatives and Policies
The state has taken several commendable steps to align with the RPwD Act, 2016:
- Social Security: The Disability Relief Allowance provides monthly financial aid (₹1,150 to ₹1,700 based on severity) to over 1.2 lakh beneficiaries, notably removing income criteria for those with 70% or more disability.
- Education: The state offers free education up to the university level and has allocated ₹1.70 crore for the Disability Scholarship Scheme in 2024-25.
- Reservation: 4% reservation in government jobs and 5% in higher education institutions has been mandated, along with age relaxations.
- Institutional Support: Notification of the HP Rights of Persons with Disabilities Rules, 2019 and the establishment of District Disability Rehabilitation Centres (DDRCs).
2. Barriers and Gaps (The “Unsatisfactory” Perspective)
Critics and disability rights activists point toward significant “last-mile” failures:
- Implementation Backlog: Major institutions (Medical/Engineering colleges) have faced judicial scrutiny for failing to implement the 5% admission quota.
- Inaccessible Infrastructure: Despite the “Accessible India” campaign, many public buildings, transport systems, and footpaths in hilly terrains remain unfriendly to wheelchair users.
- Certification Challenges: Obtaining a UDID card or permanent disability certificate is often a cumbersome, bureaucratic process for those living in remote tribal or rural areas.
- Lack of Specialized Staff: Many “inclusive” schools lack trained special educators and assistive technologies, leading to high dropout rates at the secondary level.
- Delayed Institutional Framework: Delays in appointing an Independent State Commissioner for Disabilities and infrequent meetings of the State Advisory Board undermine oversight.
“Policies on paper are merely a promise; their satisfaction is measured by the dignity and independence they provide to the last person in the queue.”
Concise Model Answer (150-Word Limit)
The welfare policies for Divyangjan in Himachal Pradesh present a mixed picture. While the state has strong schematic foundations—such as the Disability Relief Allowance, 4% job reservation, and free university education—the view that they are “far from satisfactory” holds weight due to execution gaps.
Key Issues include:
- Structural Barriers: Hilly terrain combined with poor “barrier-free” infrastructure limits mobility.
- Bureaucratic Hurdles: Difficulties in obtaining **UDID certificates** in remote areas and delayed institutional appointments like the State Commissioner for Disabilities.
- Educational Lapses: Non-implementation of quotas in professional colleges and a lack of special educators in rural schools.
To move from “intent” to “satisfaction,” the government must ensure stricter judicial compliance, full digitization of services, and a shift toward a rights-based approach rather than a charity-based model, ensuring that Himachal becomes truly inclusive for its 1.5 lakh+ differently-abled citizens.