Budget 2026 Push for Divyangjan Empowerment

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has announced focused measures for empowering Divyangjan in the Union Budget 2026, with an emphasis on assistive technology, artificial limb manufacturing, and livelihood creation. The proposals align with the government’s vision of inclusive growth under ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ and the broader goal of building a ‘Viksit Bharat’.

Scaling Up Assistive Devices Production

In her Budget speech, Sitharaman proposed enhanced support for the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India to scale up the production of high-quality assistive devices. The focus is on expanding manufacturing capacity, improving affordability, and integrating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence into design and production processes to better serve the needs of persons with disabilities.

Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana

The Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana aims to promote artificial limb and assistive device manufacturing with AI-based interventions. Under the scheme, Divyangjan will gain access to customised products and services tailored to specific functional needs. The initiative also provides industry-relevant training programmes designed to equip differently-abled individuals with skills that enhance employability and create dignified livelihood opportunities across sectors.

Divyang Sahara Yojana

The Divyang Sahara Yojana seeks to further strengthen the ecosystem for assistive technologies by supporting ALIMCO in increasing output and investing in research and development. The scheme includes integration of AI in assistive devices, strengthening of PM Divyasha Kendras, and the establishment of Assistive Technology Marts. These modern, retail-style centres are intended to improve accessibility and availability of assistive devices for Divyangjan nationwide.

Important Facts for Exams

• ALIMCO is a public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
• Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana focuses on skills and AI-enabled assistive manufacturing.
• Divyang Sahara Yojana supports R&D, production, and distribution of assistive devices.
• PM Divyasha Kendras provide aids and appliances to persons with disabilities.

Inclusive Growth and Technology Integration

The Budget measures underline the government’s intent to combine social inclusion with technology-driven solutions. By linking assistive device manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and skill development, the initiatives aim to empower Divyangjan through improved access to mobility aids, employment opportunities, and modern support infrastructure, reinforcing inclusion as a core pillar of India’s development strategy.