Haryana Expands Divyang Pension Scheme by Adding Ten New Categories for Persons With Disabilities

The Haryana Cabinet has decided to broaden the Divyang pension scheme by incorporating ten additional categories. This initiative is designed to enhance inclusivity and support for Persons With Disabilities (PwDs). The amendments to the Haryana Disabled Pension Rules, 2016, were approved during a meeting led by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini. An official statement confirmed that these changes will extend pension benefits to more PwDs in Haryana.

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Currently, 2,08,071 beneficiaries receive a monthly pension of Rs 3,000 under this scheme. With the inclusion of new categories, approximately 32,000 more PwDs will benefit. The newly added categories include cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, speech and language disability, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, sickle cell disease, multiple disabilities, specific learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, and chronic neurological conditions.

Expanded Pension Scheme for PwDs

The decision aligns with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. This Act recognises 21 disability categories at the national level. Previously, Haryana provided pensions for 11 disability categories. The recent amendments will enable nearly 32,000 additional PwDs to access monthly pension benefits.

In another significant move, the Cabinet has removed the age restriction for hemophilia and thalassemia patients seeking financial assistance. Previously, individuals had to be at least 18 years old to qualify. Now, assistance will be available regardless of age. Financial aid for hemophilia, thalassemia, and sickle cell anemia will be provided alongside any existing social security pensions.

Haryana One-Time Settlement Scheme

The government has also introduced the Haryana One-Time Settlement Scheme. This scheme aims to recover outstanding tax dues and facilitate a smoother transition into the GST regime by reducing arrears and litigations. Taxpayers with liabilities up to Rs 10 lakh under any single pre-GST Act can receive concessions up to Rs 1 lakh.

For taxpayers with liabilities exceeding Rs 10 lakh but not more than Rs 10 crore, a 50% concession on their tax amount is available. Over two lakh taxpayers are expected to benefit from this scheme. All interest and penalty amounts will be waived for those availing of this scheme.

Clean Air Project for Sustainable Development

The Cabinet has approved the Haryana Clean Air Project for Sustainable Development (HCAPSD) from the financial year 2024-25 to 2029-30. This project aims to improve air quality and reduce emissions across the Indo-Gangetic Plain. Supported by the World Bank, it has a proposed budget of Rs 3,647 crore.

The project will strengthen air quality management systems in Haryana while aligning with national efforts. It focuses on sector-specific pollution abatement measures and coordination among states in the Indo-Gangetic Plain to reduce cross-border emissions. Additionally, it aims to enhance living conditions in Haryana's cities.

This comprehensive approach reflects Haryana's commitment to supporting PwDs through expanded pension schemes and addressing environmental challenges through sustainable development initiatives.