The Sanction of Adult Sticks to Senior Citizens scheme is an initiative under the Action Plan 2017-18 by the A.P. Differently Abled & Senior Citizens Assistance Corporation. This scheme aims to improve the mobility and independence of senior citizens by providing them with walking sticks. The distribution of these walking aids is managed by the Assistant Directors of the Department for the Welfare of Differently Abled & Senior Citizens and the District Managers of the Corporation.
Benefits
- Enhanced Mobility: Provides walking sticks that help improve balance and mobility for senior citizens.
- Financial Assistance: Offers full or partial cost coverage depending on the income level of the beneficiary’s family.
- Empowerment: Aims to support the independence of senior citizens, enabling them to lead a more active lifestyle.
Eligibility
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be 60 years or older.
- Benefit Limitation: The applicant should not have availed the benefit of this scheme earlier.
Application Process
Online Application Steps
- Visit the Official Website:
- Navigate to the official website of the Department for Differently Abled & Senior Citizens.
- Access Online Applications:
- Click on “Online Applications” on the homepage and select the category “click here to apply for differently abled schemes.”
- Apply for the Scheme:
- Click on “Apply Online” corresponding to the Sanction of Adult Sticks scheme and confirm your registration.
- New User Registration (if applicable):
- If not previously registered, answer the registration query as “No” and provide your Aadhaar name, Aadhaar number, mobile number, and email ID.
- Create a new password and click “Register” to obtain your registration number.
- Login:
- Once registered, click “Login”, select “Yes” when asked if you are already registered, and enter your email/mobile number along with your password.
- Complete Application Form:
- Under the category “click here to apply for differently abled schemes,” fill out the application form with your personal and relevant details.
- Submit Application:
- Click “Submit” to finalize the application process.
Documents Required
- Income Certificate
- Medical Recommendation Certificate (issued by an Assistant Civil Surgeon or equivalent)
- Aadhaar Card
- Cell/Mobile Number
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who is eligible to receive a walking stick under this scheme?
A1: Senior citizens aged 60 years or older who have not previously availed the benefit are eligible.
Q2: How is the cost of the walking stick determined for different income groups?
*A2:
- Category I: Full cost is covered for incomes up to ₹15,000 per month.
- Category II: Half of the cost is covered for incomes between ₹15,001 and ₹20,000 per month.
- Category III: Beneficiaries with incomes above ₹20,000 must bear the full cost.*
Q3: What documents are required to apply for a walking stick?
A3: Applicants must submit an Income Certificate, a Medical Recommendation Certificate (minimum rank of Assistant Civil Surgeon), Aadhaar Card, and a valid mobile number.
Q4: How often can an individual receive a walking stick under this scheme?
A4: The benefit is available only once per applicant; individuals cannot receive the benefit multiple times.
Q5: Who is responsible for distributing the walking sticks?
A5: The distribution is managed by the Assistant Directors of the Department for the Welfare of Differently Abled & Senior Citizens and the District Managers of the A.P. Differently Abled & Senior Citizens Assistance Corporation.
Q6: What measures are in place to prevent double or false claims?
A6: The scheme requires rigorous document verification and monitoring to ensure that benefits are not availed multiple times or fraudulently.
Q7: Can the walking stick be transferred to another person?
A7: No, the walking stick is allocated to the eligible beneficiary and is non-transferable.
Q8: Is there an application deadline for receiving a walking stick?
A8: Applicants should refer to the official guidelines on the website for any specific deadlines.
Q9: What happens if the walking stick is damaged or requires maintenance?
A9: Beneficiaries are advised to contact the designated office for instructions on repair or maintenance services.
Q10: What are the legal implications if incorrect information is found in the application at a later date?
A10: Providing false or incorrect information may lead to penalties, including disqualification from the scheme and potential legal action.