The Readers Allowance to Visually Impaired Persons scheme was introduced by the Department for the Welfare of Differently Abled Persons, Government of Tamil Nadu. This scheme provides financial assistance to visually impaired students from secondary school to postgraduate and professional courses to support their academic learning.
Benefits
The financial assistance varies based on the educational level:
| Educational Level | Allowance Amount (per annum) |
|---|---|
| 9th to 10th Standard | ₹3,000/- |
| Degree Courses | ₹5,000/- |
| Post Graduate & Professional Courses | ₹6,000/- |
Eligibility
- The applicant must be a visually impaired student.
- The applicant must be enrolled in 9th standard or above in a recognized/bonafide institution.
Application Process
Offline Application Process:
- Visit the District Differently Abled Welfare Office during office hours.
- Request the prescribed application form from the designated staff.
- Fill in all the mandatory details in the application form.
- Attach the required documents and self-attest them if necessary.
- Submit the application form along with supporting documents to the District Differently Abled Welfare Officer.
- Obtain a receipt or acknowledgment slip to track the application status.
Documents Required
- Reader Certificate (issued by the head of the institution).
- National Identity Card for Differently Abled Persons.
- Statement of Marks from the previous qualifying examination.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the purpose of the Readers Allowance scheme?
The scheme provides financial assistance to visually impaired students to hire readers who can help them with academic learning.
Q: How much allowance is provided for students in IX to X standard?
Visually impaired students in 9th and 10th standard receive ₹3,000/- per annum.
Q: What is the allowance amount for degree courses?
Students pursuing degree courses receive ₹5,000/- per annum.
Q: How much allowance is granted for postgraduate and professional courses?
Students in postgraduate and professional courses receive ₹6,000/- per annum.
Q: Who is eligible to receive the readers allowance?
Only visually impaired students studying in recognized institutions from 9th standard onwards are eligible.
Q: What documents are required to apply?
Applicants must submit:
- Reader Certificate from the institution head.
- National ID for Differently Abled Persons.
- Previous exam mark sheet.
Q: Can visually impaired students in lower standards avail of this allowance?
No, only students from 9th standard onwards are eligible.
Q: Can the allowance be used for purposes other than hiring a reader?
No, the funds are specifically for hiring readers to assist visually impaired students.
Q: Is financial assistance available for acquiring educational materials?
This scheme only covers reader allowance. Separate schemes exist for educational materials.
Q: Can students studying in non-recognized institutions apply for this scheme?
No, only students enrolled in recognized institutions are eligible.
Q: What happens if a student changes institutions during the academic year?
The student must inform the District Differently Abled Welfare Office to update the application details.
Q: Are there additional support services under this scheme?
The scheme primarily focuses on reader allowance. Other support schemes may be available for visually impaired students.