The “Issue of Free Bus Pass to Differently Abled Person” scheme was launched by the Department of Social Welfare, Government of Puducherry. This scheme aims to facilitate the mobility and transport needs of differently abled persons by providing them with free bus passes. The passes are valid on buses run by both Government and non-governmental organizations within the Union Territory of Puducherry.
Benefits
- Free Bus Passes:
Differently abled individuals receive free bus passes that can be used on all buses operating within the Union Territory of Puducherry.
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must be a native/resident of the Union Territory of Puducherry for at least 5 years.
- The applicant’s annual income should not exceed ₹75,000/-.
- The applicant must have a disability of 40% or above.
Application Process
The application process can be initiated either offline or online.
- Obtaining the Application Form:
- Option 1:
Visit the Office or Sub-Office of the Department of Social Welfare during office hours and request a hard copy of the prescribed application form from the designated staff. - Option 2:
Take a printout of the prescribed application form available from the official website.
- Option 1:
- Filling the Application Form:
- Complete all mandatory fields.
- Affix a passport-sized photograph (signed across if required).
- Attach self-attested copies of all mandatory documents.
- Submission:
- Submit the duly filled and signed application form along with the required documents to the appropriate authority:
- Puducherry: The Deputy Director, Differently Abled Section, Directorate of Social Welfare.
- Karaikal: The Assistant Director, Social Welfare Department (Sub Office).
- Mahe/Yanam: The Welfare Officer (i/c), Social Welfare Department (Sub Office).
- Request a receipt or acknowledgement that includes the date, time of submission, and a unique identification number (if applicable).
- Submit the duly filled and signed application form along with the required documents to the appropriate authority:
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card
- Ration Card
- Residence-cum-Nativity Certificate issued by the competent authority
- Recent Passport-size Photograph
- Bank Passbook
- Caste Certificate
- Disability Certificate or Medical Certificate
- Financial Assistance Identity Card
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
Are there any penalties for misuse of the free bus passes?
The guidelines specify penalties for misuse; refer to the official guidelines for details. -
Does the scheme cover transport outside the Union Territory of Puducherry?
No, the free bus pass is valid only for buses operating within the Union Territory. -
Is there an age limit for applicants to qualify for the free bus pass?
No specific age limit is mentioned in the provided details. -
Can individuals with a disability below 40% apply for the scheme?
No, only those with a disability of 40% or above are eligible. -
How does the scheme contribute to the mobility of differently abled individuals?
It enables better access to public transportation, improving their overall mobility and independence. -
Can non-residents of Puducherry avail of this scheme?
No, applicants must be residents of Puducherry for at least 5 years. -
Are there any restrictions on the type of buses covered by the free bus passes?
The passes are valid for buses run by both Government and non-governmental organizations within Puducherry. -
Who is the designated authority for delayed benefits in Karaikal?
Applicants in Karaikal should contact the Assistant Director, Social Welfare Department (Sub Office). -
Where should applicants in Mahe/Yanam contact in case of delayed benefits?
Applicants in Mahe/Yanam should contact the Welfare Officer (i/c) at the Social Welfare Department (Sub Office). -
What is the maximum permissible annual income for applicants?
The applicant’s annual income should not exceed ₹75,000/-. -
What are the residency requirements for eligibility?
The applicant must have been a resident of the Union Territory of Puducherry for at least 5 years. -
What level of disability is considered for eligibility?
A disability of 40% or above is required.