The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment introduced the “Scheme of Assistance for the Prevention of Alcoholism & Substance (Drugs) Abuse and for Social Defence Services” on 15th October 2008. It is the result of merging two central sector schemes:
- The Scheme for the Prevention of Alcoholism & Substance (Drugs) Abuse
- The General Grant-in-Aid Programme for Financial Assistance in the Field of Social Defence.
The scheme focuses on awareness creation, counseling, rehabilitation, and aftercare services, emphasizing whole-person recovery (WPR) for individuals affected by alcoholism and substance abuse. It also supports innovative and pilot projects aimed at addressing urgent needs in social defence services.
Objectives
- Create awareness about the harmful effects of alcoholism and substance abuse.
- Provide community-based services like counseling, de-addiction, and rehabilitation.
- Address gaps in existing social defence services through innovative solutions.
- Support pilot projects aimed at welfare and empowerment within the Ministry’s mandate.
Eligibility
Eligible Organizations
- Registered Societies under the Indian Societies Registration Act, 1860.
- Charitable Non-Profit Companies.
- Public Trusts registered under relevant laws.
- Non-Official Organizations engaged in social welfare promotion.
- Other Institutions such as:
- Universities, research institutes, and schools.
- Statutory bodies like Panchayati Raj Institutions and Municipal Corporations.
- Red Cross Societies.
Organization Requirements
- Minimum two years of experience in the relevant field or demonstrated competence for the proposed project.
- Operate on a non-profit basis.
- Have a well-defined Managing Body with a constitution detailing powers, duties, and responsibilities.
Benefits and Financial Assistance
Items Covered
- Building Construction/Rent:
- Up to ₹10,00,000 for construction or extension.
- No grants for land purchase.
- Staff Salaries and Allowances:
- E.g., Project Director: ₹8,400/month, Social Worker: ₹4,200/month.
- Service Delivery Costs:
- Includes training, food, education, etc.
- Beneficiary Maintenance:
- Diet: ₹600/person/month, Bedding: ₹600/person (one-time), Uniform: ₹1,000/person/year.
- Other Support:
- Equipment, furniture, stipends, and utilities.
Norms
- Financial assistance covers up to 90% of approved expenditure.
- 100% funding may be provided in areas with limited services but significant demand.
- Ceiling for non-recurring grants: ₹10,00,000/project/year.
Application Process
Steps
- Submission:
- Complete the prescribed application form with required documents.
- Submit it to the Ministry or designated authority.
- Inspection:
- Inspection by a designated agency, followed by proposal processing based on the inspection report.
- Grant Disbursement:
- 70% of the sanctioned amount is released as the first installment.
- The remaining 30% is disbursed upon compliance with documentation requirements.
- Continuity Bond:
- Organizations must execute a five-year continuity bond, ensuring compliance with grant conditions.
Documents Required
- For Building Construction:
- Building plans, layout, site acquisition confirmation.
- General Documents:
- Problem statement, project objectives, target groups, and cost estimates.
Illustrative Intervention Areas
- Address underserviced problem areas.
- Fill gaps in existing services to maximize impact.
- Offer integrated preventive, protective, and rehabilitative services.
- Mobilize public support for pressing social issues.
- Train social workers and implement innovative welfare projects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How does the continuity bond ensure compliance with grant conditions?
- It binds the organization to comply with grant terms, with penalties for non-compliance.
- What costs are covered in maintenance charges for beneficiaries?
- Diet, bedding, clothing, and other essential services.
- How many years of experience are required for organizations to qualify?
- A minimum of two years in the relevant area.
- What is the financial assistance limit for voluntary organizations?
- Up to 90% of approved expenditure; 100% in certain cases.
- When did the scheme come into existence?
- The scheme was launched on 15th October 2008.
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