Madhya Pradesh to Frame First Divyang Policy for 10 Lakh Disabled

Bhopal plans unified policy in 180 days to streamline welfare across departments, says official

In a significant move, the Madhya Pradesh government under Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav has directed the preparation of the state's first-ever comprehensive policy for around 10 lakh divyangjans (persons with disabilities). The draft is slated for completion within six months, aiming to bring all departments onto a single platform for unified welfare efforts.

Commissioner of Divyangjan Empowerment Dr Ajay Khemariya confirmed the development to reporters on Tuesday. "This will be the first time the state is framing a dedicated policy for divyangjans, much like our existing child and women policies," he said, highlighting the current lack of coordination among departments.

Policy Draft in 180 Days

The initiative stems from CM Yadav's directives, with Dr Khemariya tasked to finalize the Madhya Pradesh Divyang Policy draft by November 2026. It will be placed before the cabinet for approval, with implementation targeted for later this year. Officials noted that fragmented schemes across departments—like social justice, MSME, NRLM, and women & child development—have led to inconsistencies in benefits.

Initial reports indicate the policy will cover rehabilitation, welfare schemes under the Divyangjan Act 2016, state funds, and destitute aid. Dr Khemariya wrote to the CM in February this year, followed by a formal order on April 13 from the Social Justice and Divyangjan Empowerment Department.

Stakeholder Consultations Begin

To shape the policy, extensive consultations are underway. Dr Khemariya plans to engage experts, beneficiaries, civil society, renowned athletes, and cultural figures. Discussions will include divyangjans from rural, urban, and tribal belts, particularly in challenging areas like Alirajpur, Jhabua, and Barwani, where scheme delivery often faces hurdles.

"Ground-level feedback is crucial," an official source said. The team will also study policies in states like Telangana and Tripura, besides inputs from those who've researched abroad or in universities.

Bridging Departmental Gaps

Currently, divyangjans access benefits through disparate departmental norms—education runs inclusion programs, health focuses on aids, and social justice handles pensions. The new Madhya Pradesh Divyang Policy seeks to standardize these, ensuring holistic development without overlaps or gaps.

Data from the 2011 census and UDID cards peg the divyangjan count at about 10 lakh. The upcoming census could reveal a sharp rise, as it will account for 21 disability categories against the previous seven.

Key Proposals Emerge

Among early ideas, the policy eyes division-level special shelters with 100 beds each for mentally challenged adults over 18. This addresses long-standing gaps in institutional care. Dr Khemariya emphasized gathering suggestions from working professionals and divyangjans themselves to make it practical.

The push gained emotional resonance earlier this year when CM Yadav celebrated his birthday with divyang children, underscoring the government's commitment.

Broader Welfare Impact

Once rolled out, the policy could transform service delivery, making Madhya Pradesh a model for divyangjan empowerment. Public reactions on social media already welcome the step, with calls for faster implementation amid rising disability awareness.

As consultations ramp up, all eyes are on how this unified framework under the Madhya Pradesh Divyang Policy will elevate lives across the state. Officials expect the draft by late 2026, with refinements based on wide inputs.