The Non-Governmental Aided Organization (Special Schools and Vocational Training Centre) for Disabled is a scheme by the Department of Social Justice & Special Assistance, Government of Maharashtra. The scheme provides special education to children with disabilities (below 18 years) and vocational training for individuals with disabilities (above 18 years). Only permanent residents of Maharashtra are eligible for this scheme, which is 100% funded by the state government.
Benefits
- Special Education for disabled children aged 6 to 18 years in special schools.
- Vocational Training for disabled individuals above 18 years.
- Free education, food, and shelter in residential institutions.
- Access to appropriate learning environments for students with disabilities.
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must be a citizen of India and a permanent resident of Maharashtra.
- Must be enrolled in a Non-Governmental Institution / Residential Institution recognized under the scheme.
- The applicant must be a Person with Disability (Visually Impaired, Hearing Impaired, Orthopedically Handicapped, etc.).
- The percentage of disability must be 40% or above.
- Age Criteria:
- Special Education: 6 to 18 years
- Vocational Training: 18 years and above
Application Process
Offline Application:
- Visit the District Social Welfare Office and request an application form.
- Fill in the mandatory fields, attach a passport-sized photograph, and self-attest required documents.
- Submit the application form and required documents to the Assistant Commissioner, District Social Welfare Office.
- Collect the receipt/acknowledgment for future reference.
Documents Required
- Proof of enrollment in a Non-Governmental Institution / Residential Institution.
- Aadhaar Card.
- Proof of Age (Birth Certificate, 10th/12th Marksheet, etc.).
- Two passport-sized photographs (signed across).
- Residential/Domicile Certificate (Maharashtra).
- Disability Certificate (certified by a recognized authority).
- Bank Account Details (Bank Name, Branch, IFSC, etc.).
- Any other documents requested by the District Social Welfare Office.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who are the target beneficiaries of this scheme?
Persons with disabilities residing in Maharashtra, seeking special education (6-18 years) or vocational training (18+ years).
Q: What is the age limit for special education under this scheme?
Children with disabilities aged 6 to 18 years can avail of special education.
Q: What is the age limit for vocational training?
Individuals with disabilities aged 18 years and above can enroll in vocational training.
Q: What additional facilities are provided through this scheme?
Eligible beneficiaries receive free education, food, and shelter in residential institutions.
Q: Is there a minimum disability percentage required for eligibility?
Yes, applicants must have a minimum of 40% disability to qualify.
Q: Are orthopedically handicapped children covered under this scheme?
Yes, visually impaired, hearing impaired, and orthopedically handicapped children are eligible.
Q: Is a Residential Certificate/Domicile Certificate of Maharashtra mandatory?
Yes, only permanent residents of Maharashtra can apply, and proof is required.
Q: What is the full form of SJSA?
SJSA stands for Social Justice & Special Assistance Department, Government of Maharashtra.
Q: Is this a state-funded or centrally funded scheme?
This scheme is 100% funded by the Government of Maharashtra.
Q: Can applicants from neighboring states like Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, etc., apply?
No, this scheme is only for permanent residents of Maharashtra.
Q: Where can I find the scheme guidelines?
The scheme guidelines are available on the official website of the Department of Social Justice & Special Assistance, Maharashtra.
Q: Where can I find the address of the Department of Social Justice & Special Assistance?
The official department address and contact details are available on the government website.
Q: Where can I find the list of District Social Welfare Offices?
A directory of District Social Welfare Offices is available on the official website.
Q: Where can I report grievances related to this scheme?
You can file a complaint at the District Social Welfare Office or through the official grievance portal.
Q: Is there an income-related criterion for this scheme?
No, the scheme does not have an income limit for eligibility.
Q: Where can I find the application form? Is it available online?
The offline form is available at the District Social Welfare Office. Online application options, if available, will be on the official website.