The Financial Assistance to Visually Impaired Advocates scheme is an initiative by the Department of Social Justice, Government of Kerala. This scheme provides critical financial support to visually impaired advocates practicing in one or more courts in Kerala. It offers both an ex-gratia non-recurring grant for professional necessities and a reader’s allowance to assist them over a period of 10 years.
Benefits
- Ex-Gratia Grant:
A one-time non-recurring grant of ₹3500/- for the purchase of essential professional materials. - Reader’s Allowance:
A monthly allowance of ₹5000/- for a period of 10 years to support the advocate’s practice. - Comprehensive Support:
Combines financial aid for both immediate professional requirements and long-term operational support.
Eligibility
To qualify for the scheme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Residency:
The applicant must be a native and resident of Kerala. - Professional Status:
The applicant should be a visually impaired advocate practicing in one or more courts in Kerala. - Income Limit:
The combined annual income of the applicant and their family from all sources must not exceed ₹1,00,000/-. - Additional Note:
A person who becomes a reading assistant to advocates should have at least passed the S.S.L.C. examination.
Application Process
Registration Process (Online)
- Access the Portal:
Visit the SUNEETHI – Online Service Application Portal. - One-Time Registration:
Click on “One time Registration” and fill in your Name, Email ID, and Mobile Number. Then click ‘Register’. - Verification:
Enter the verification code received on your mobile number and click ‘Verify’. - Profile Creation:
Complete the profile creation form by filling in all mandatory details and click ‘Register’.
Login/Application Process
- Sign In:
Once registered, visit the SUNEETHI portal and click on “Citizen Login”. Enter your mobile number (as the username) and your password, then click “Sign in”. - Update Profile:
Update your personal information, contact details, identity cards, and bank details by clicking on the ‘Edit’ button. - Select the Scheme:
Once your profile is updated, the schemes will appear on the left side of the screen. Click on “Apply Now” under the Financial Assistance to Visually Impaired Advocates scheme. - Complete Application:
Fill in all the mandatory details in the application form and click ‘Submit’.
Documents Required
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar Card (or other valid identity card)
- Mobile Number & Email ID: For verification and communication
- Passport-Sized Photograph
- Medical Certificate:
- From an eye specialist for visually impaired advocates, or
- From an ortho specialist for orthopedically handicapped advocates
- Practice Certificate:
A certificate in the prescribed form from the presiding officer of the court/centre where the applicant practices. - Income Certificate:
Issued by the concerned Village Officer in the prescribed form, showing the combined annual income of the applicant and their family. - Educational and Professional Certificates:
Of both the advocate and the reading assistant, duly attested by a Gazetted Officer. - Bank Details:
Copy of the passbook’s front page. - Other Documents:
Any additional documents as specified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the “Financial Assistance to Visually Impaired Advocates” Scheme?
A1: It is a scheme that provides a one-time grant and a monthly reader’s allowance to visually impaired advocates practicing in Kerala.
Q2: Which department has launched this scheme?
A2: The scheme is launched by the Department of Social Justice, Government of Kerala.
Q3: Who is eligible to get the benefits under the scheme?
A3: Native and resident visually impaired advocates practicing in one or more courts in Kerala, with a combined annual family income not exceeding ₹1,00,000/-.
Q4: Is this scheme only for visually impaired advocates?
A4: Yes, it is specifically designed for visually impaired advocates.
Q5: Are there any criteria for a reading assistant of advocates?
A5: Yes, the reading assistant must have at least passed the S.S.L.C. examination.
Q6: Is this scheme only for residents of Kerala?
A6: Yes, only native and resident advocates of Kerala are eligible.
Q7: What is the benefit of the scheme?
A7: The scheme offers an ex-gratia non-recurring grant of ₹3500/- and a reader’s allowance of ₹5000/- per month for 10 years.
Q8: Is there any criterion for annual family income?
A8: Yes, the combined annual income of the applicant and their family should not exceed ₹1,00,000/-.
Q9: How can an applicant apply under the scheme?
A9: Applications can be submitted online via the SUNEETHI portal or offline by following the prescribed process.