How to Apply for Disability Certificate in India: Eligibility, Process, and Benefits

How to Apply for Disability Certificate in India: Eligibility, Process, and Benefits

What is a Disability Certificate?

The Indian Government issues an  official document to the person with disability called “Disability Certificate”. This certificate is very important for the person with disability because it enables lots of benefits like financial support, employment, reservation for education and travel expenses. Applying for a UDID card (Unique Disability ID card) is one of the benefits. 

Who Issues a Disability Certificate in India?

Disability Certificates are issued by medical authorities that are approved by the State or Central Government. These are usually government hospitals or designated medical boards. A certified medical officer or board, which includes physicians such as neurologists, psychiatrists, orthopedic surgeons, etc., must sign the certificate.

Eligibility Criteria for Applying for a Disability Certificate in India

This certificate is available to anyone who meets the requirements of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act of 2016. To qualify:

• The person must be the citizen of India
• According to the Indian Medical Authority, the disability must be 40% or higher. 
• Physical, mental, intellectual, neurological, or sensory disabilities are all eligible.

Types of recognized disabilities include:

1. Blindness : Complete lack of vision. (Minimum 40%)
2. Low Vision : Partial visual impairment even after treatment/correction. (Minimum 40%)
3. Leprosy Cured Person : Individuals cured of leprosy but still with residual disabilities. (Minimum 40%)
4. Hearing Impairment : Partial or complete hearing loss. (Minimum 40%)
5. Locomotor Disability : Impairment in movement due to bones, joints, or muscles. (Minimum 40%)
6. Dwarfism : Adult height less than 4 feet 10 inches. (Minimum 40%)
7. Intellectual Disability : Below-average intellectual functioning. (Minimum 40%)
8. Mental Illness : Disorders affecting thinking, emotion, or behavior. (Minimum 40%)
9. Autism Spectrum Disorder : A developmental disorder affecting communication and behavior. (Minimum 40%)
10. Cerebral Palsy : Motor condition affecting movement and posture. (Minimum 40%)
11. Muscular Dystrophy: Group of diseases causing progressive weakness. (Minimum 40%)
12. Chronic Neurological Conditions : Conditions like Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s Disease. (Minimum 40%)
13. Specific Learning Disabilities : Issues like dyslexia, dysgraphia, etc. (Minimum 40%)
14. Speech and Language Disability : Problem in speaking or communicating. (Minimum 40%)
15. Thalassemia : Inherited blood disorder affecting hemoglobin production. (Minimum 40%)
16. Hemophilia : A condition where blood doesn't clot properly. (Minimum 40%)
17. Sickle Cell Disease: Genetic blood disorder causing anemia and pain. (Minimum 40%)
18. Multiple Disabilities : Combination of two or more disabilities listed here. (Minimum 40%)
19. Acid Attack Victim : Victims of acid attack with disfigurement or other lasting effects. (Minimum 40%)
20. Parkinson’s Disease : A neurological condition that affects movement. (Minimum 40%)
21. Hard of Hearing : Mild-to-moderate hearing loss, less than total deafness. (Minimum 40%)

Documents Required for Applying Disability Certificate in India

[Note: Not all documents are mandatory for everyone. Some may vary depending on your age, type of disability, or benefit applied for.]

Here’s a simplified list:

1. Recent Colour Photo
   • A passport-sized front-facing photograph.
2. Signature or Thumb Impression (Optional)
   • Required only for online forms or UDID applications.
3. Address Proof (Any one)
   • Aadhaar Card 
   • Voter ID 
   • Utility Bill
   • Ration Card
4. Identity Proof (Any one)
   • Aadhaar Card
   • PAN Card 
   • School ID
   • Passport
5. Income Certificate
   • Only required if you're applying for income-based benefits like scholarships or pension.
   • If the applicant is a minor/dependent, submit the parents' income certificate.
6. Caste Certificate (Only if applicable)
   • Required only for SC/ST/OBC candidates to access reserved category benefits.
7. Medical Reports / Diagnostic Records
   • Necessary to prove the type and extent of disability. Include both old and recent reports.

How to Apply for a Disability Certificate in India: Step-by-Step Process

You can apply either online or offline. Here’s how:

Apply Online via UDID Portal

1. Go to: https://swavlambancard.gov.in/registration
2. Click on "Register" and fill in your details.
3. Upload scanned copies of your documents.
4. Choose the nearest medical authority for assessment.
5. Submit your form and note the application ID.
6. Attend the medical evaluation when called.
7. Once approved, download your certificate from the website.

Apply Offline at a Government Hospital

1. Visit your nearest government hospital or district medical board.
2. Carry all necessary documents.
3. Fill out the disability certificate form provided there.
4. Submit it to the concerned department.
5. Go through the medical check-up.
6. Collect your certificate once approved.

Disability Certificate Application Tracking

If you applied online via the UDID portal:

1. Visit: https://swavlambancard.gov.in
2. Click on "Track Application Status."
3. Enter your Enrollment/Application number.

You will see the current status of your application.

Disability Certificate Validity

• For permanent disabilities, the certificate is valid for a lifetime.
• For temporary disabilities, the certificate is valid for up to 5 years. After that, it must be renewed.

Disability Certificate Renewal

If your certificate is expiring or your condition has changed:

1. Visit: https://swavlambancard.gov.in
2. Go to the "Renew UDID" section.
3. Upload updated medical reports.
4. Submit the application.
5. Attend a re-evaluation if required.
6. Get your renewed certificate.

Benefits of Applying for a Disability Certificate in India

Having a disability certificate gives you access to:

• Reservation in government jobs and education.
• Monthly disability pension (varies by state).
• Concession in train and air travel.
• Scholarships and skill development programs.
• Income tax benefits.
• Priority in getting Aids and Appliances.
• UDID card benefits across various schemes.
• Accessible housing schemes.

Securing a disability certificate or UDID card is a crucial step in availing the rights, benefits, and support systems available under the law. Being informed and prepared can ensure a smoother and more empowered journey through the application process.

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