This scheme ‘The Issue of Free Bus Pass to Differently Abled Persons’ in Puducherry is an inclusive scheme launched in consideration of mobility and accessibility to persons living with disabilities. Such schemes not only offer free travel to all the buses operated by the Government of Puducherry and converged NGOs, but also promote persons with disabilities to lead independent life style.
Key Benefits
- Free Bus Passes: Valid for buses operated by the Government and non-governmental organizations within Puducherry.
- Facilitates Mobility: Ensures better access to education, employment, and social activities for differently-abled individuals.
Eligibility Criteria
- Residency:
- Applicant must be a native or resident of Puducherry for at least 5 years.
- Income Limit:
- Annual income of the applicant must not exceed ₹75,000.
- Disability:
- Applicants must have a certified disability level of 40% or above.
Application Process
Offline Process
- Visit the Department of Social Welfare office or sub-office in Puducherry, Karaikal, Mahe, or Yanam.
- Collect the application form from the designated staff during office hours.
Online Process
- Download and print the application form from the official website.
Steps to Apply:
- Fill the Application:
- Complete the form with all mandatory details and attach a passport-sized photograph.
- Attach Documents:
- Submit all required documents (self-attested if necessary).
- Submit the Form:
- Submit the completed application to the respective offices:
- Puducherry: Deputy Director, Differently Abled Section, Directorate of Social Welfare.
- Karaikal: Assistant Director, Social Welfare Department (Sub Office).
- Mahe/Yanam: Welfare Officer (i/c), Social Welfare Department (Sub Office).
- Submit the completed application to the respective offices:
- Acknowledge Submission:
- Request an acknowledgment or receipt containing a unique identification number, date, and time of submission.
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card
- Ration Card
- Residence-Cum-Nativity Certificate (Issued by a competent authority)
- Recent Passport-Sized Photograph
- Bank Passbook (For record verification)
- Caste Certificate (If applicable)
- Disability Certificate/Medical Certificate
- Financial Assistance Identity Card
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Are there penalties for misuse of free bus passes?
Yes, misuse of the free bus pass may result in revocation of benefits. - Does the scheme cover transport outside Puducherry?
No, the scheme is only valid for travel within the Union Territory of Puducherry. - What is the maximum income limit for eligibility?
The applicant’s annual income must not exceed ₹75,000. - What are the residency requirements for the scheme?
Applicants must have resided in Puducherry for at least 5 years. - Is there an age limit for applicants?
No, there is no age limit to qualify for the scheme. - What level of disability is required for eligibility?
Applicants must have a certified disability level of 40% or above. - Are there restrictions on the type of buses covered by the free pass?
The scheme covers buses operated by the Government and recognized non-governmental organizations within Puducherry. - Who is the authority for delayed benefits in Karaikal?
Contact the Assistant Director, Social Welfare Department (Sub Office) in Karaikal. - Where can applicants in Mahe/Yanam raise grievances?
Contact the Welfare Officer (i/c), Social Welfare Department (Sub Office) in Mahe/Yanam.
Sources and References
- Guidelines
- Citizen’s Charter
- Application Form
- Contact Details: Sub Offices for further assistance.
- Grievance Redressal Portal: Track application status and raise complaints.
This scheme is a commendable initiative by the Government of Puducherry, aimed at enhancing the quality of life and mobility of differently-abled individuals within the Union Territory.