The State Award for the Welfare of the Handicapped is a prestigious recognition initiative launched by the Department of Social Welfare, Government of Puducherry. The scheme aims to honor individuals, institutions, and employers who have contributed significantly to the empowerment and economic productivity of differently abled persons. The awards are conferred annually on 3rd December—International Day for Differently Abled—to celebrate and motivate continuous efforts in the field.
Benefits
- Cash Awards:
- ₹10,000 for outstanding differently abled employees (both government and private) and self-employed persons.
- ₹15,000 for individuals serving the cause.
- ₹25,000 for institutions (subject to financial selection).
- Recognition:
- Citation with Shield for both government and private employers, which serves as a mark of distinction and encourages further support for differently abled personnel.
Eligibility
To be considered for the award, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Residency: Must be a native or resident of the Union Territory of Puducherry for at least 5 years.
- Disability Requirement: Applicants must have a disability of 40% or above.
- Category Specific:
- For employees and self-employed persons, their performance and contribution in their respective fields are considered.
- For institutions and employers, their efforts in creating supportive environments for the differently abled are recognized.
Application Process
Online Application Process
- Visit the Official e-District Portal:
- Access the portal for the Government of Puducherry.
- Registration:
- Click on “Login” at the top right corner.
- Select “Register a New Membership” and fill in all mandatory fields including Username, Password, Personal Details (Full Name, Email Address, Address, Gender, Date of Birth, Mobile Number), and complete the Captcha Code.
- Agree to the declaration and click “Signup”.
- Login:
- After registration, login using your Username and Password.
- Select the Scheme:
- Once logged in, a list of schemes is displayed by department.
- Click on “State Award for the Welfare of the Handicapped” to access its online application form.
- Complete the Application Form:
- Fill in all mandatory fields (indicated with a red asterisk) and upload the required documents.
- Tick the declaration stating, “I hereby declare that the above-mentioned details are true and correct as per the best of my knowledge.”
- Submit and Track:
- Submit the application form and note the application number provided for tracking.
- The application number is also sent to your registered Mobile Number/Email ID.
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card
- Ration Card
- Residence-cum-Nativity Certificate issued by the competent authority
- Recent Passport-Size Photograph
- Bank Passbook
- Disability Certificate
- Pension Card (if applicable)
- Any other Necessary Documents for the respective category (e.g., certificates of achievement or service for institutions/employers)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is there an age restriction for applicants under this scheme?
A1: No specific age restriction is mentioned; the primary eligibility is based on the disability percentage and residence criteria.
Q2: Can an individual serve the cause of the differently-abled in any capacity to qualify for the award?
A2: Yes, individuals serving in any capacity to promote the welfare of the differently abled are eligible for the award.
Q3: Who administers the “State Award for the Welfare of the Handicapped” scheme?
A3: The scheme is administered by the Department of Social Welfare, Government of Puducherry.
Q4: What does the award for government employers include?
A4: Government employers receive a Citation with Shield as recognition for their efforts.
Q5: Why was the 3rd of December chosen for the award ceremony?
A5: The awards are conferred on 3rd December, which is celebrated as the International Day for Differently Abled, to highlight the importance of inclusivity.
Q6: Is financial selection involved for institutions receiving awards?
A6: Yes, the award amount of ₹25,000 for institutions is subject to financial selection by the state-level committee.
Q7: What is the required disability percentage for applicants?
A7: Applicants must have a disability of 40% or above to be eligible.
Q8: What is the eligibility criterion regarding residence for applicants?
A8: Applicants must have been a native or resident of the Union Territory of Puducherry for at least 5 years.
Q9: What recognition do private employers receive under this scheme?
A9: Private employers are honored with a Citation with Shield.
Q10: What is the reward for individuals serving the cause of differently-abled persons?
A10: Individuals are awarded a cash prize of ₹15,000.
Q11: What are the benefits for outstanding differently-abled government or private employees?
*A11: Outstanding differently-abled employees receive a cash award of ₹10,000.