The Scheme has been formulated to help visually challenged permanent teachers to pursue teaching and research with the help of a Reader and by using teaching and learning aids by way of providing Reader’s Allowance and funds for the purchase of Braille books, recorded materials, etc.
Objective
The primary objective of the scheme is to:
- Enable visually challenged teachers to achieve self-dependence in teaching, learning, and research.
- Provide financial support for purchasing necessary teaching aids and employing readers for academic assistance.
- Encourage inclusive teaching practices in colleges across India.
Benefits
Eligible visually challenged teachers are entitled to the following benefits:
- ₹36,000 per annum for academic assistance and teaching aids.
- The grant can be utilized for:
- Payment to Readers (up to ₹50 per hour).
- Purchase of Braille books/material.
- Purchase of recorded materials.
- Other related materials or equipment needed for research, teaching, and learning.
- Reimbursement Process:
- Teachers will receive reimbursement from their college based on actual expenses incurred.
- Original bills and payment receipts must be submitted to the college for reimbursement.
- No submissions are required to the UGC directly.
Eligibility
To be eligible for financial assistance, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Visually challenged permanent teachers working in colleges in India.
- The colleges must be recognized under Sections 2(f) and 12B of the UGC Act, 1956.
- Teachers must have an official visually disability certificate issued by a Government Hospital.
Application Process
Offline Application:
- Obtain the Application Form:
- Use the prescribed format provided by the UGC for financial assistance to visually challenged teachers.
- Fill in the Details:
- Complete the form with all required information, including personal details, disability certificate, and expenditure estimates.
- Submit to the Regional Office:
- Send the proposal to the respective Regional Office of the UGC. Include a consolidated list of all visually challenged teachers at the institution.
- Approval Process:
- The UGC will analyze and approve the proposal. Once approved, the first installment of the grant will be released.
Grant Disbursement Process
- First Installment:
- Released along with the approval letter from the UGC.
- Subsequent Installments:
- Require submission of a Utilization Certificate and Statement of Expenditure for the previous year.
- Documentation:
- The college must maintain detailed records of all expenses and submit them as required by the UGC.
Documents Required
To apply for the scheme, the following documents are necessary:
- Aadhaar Card (as proof of identity).
- Visually Disability Certificate issued by a Government Hospital.
- Qualification Certificates (relevant academic credentials).
- Bank Details (for direct transfer of funds).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the financial assistance for visually challenged teachers?
It is a UGC-funded scheme providing ₹36,000 per annum to visually challenged teachers for academic assistance and teaching aids.
Q2: Who is eligible for financial assistance?
All visually challenged permanent teachers working in UGC-recognized colleges under Sections 2(f) and 12B of the UGC Act, 1956.
Q3: What types of financial assistance are available?
The assistance covers payments for readers, Braille materials, recorded materials, and other teaching aids.
Q4: How can I apply for financial assistance?
You can apply offline by submitting a proposal in the prescribed format to the Regional Office of the UGC.
Q5: Are there any specific organizations that provide financial assistance?
The scheme is managed by the University Grants Commission (UGC), and applications are processed through UGC Regional Offices.
Q6: Are there any repayment obligations for the financial assistance received?
No, the financial assistance is a grant and does not require repayment.