Barnala District Takes the Lead in Issuing UDID Cards for Divyang Persons in Punjab
Barnala District Tops in Punjab for Issuing UDID Cards for Divyang Persons
The Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has made significant strides toward the welfare of Divyang persons (persons with disabilities) in the state. One of the major initiatives is the distribution of UDID cards (Unique Disability Identification), which act as a single identification document, providing easy access to government services and benefits.
बरनाला में 9,766 दिव्यांगजन के यूडीआईडी कार्ड बनाए जा चुके: डॉ.. बलजीत कौरhttps://t.co/nqTZf8p4Zq pic.twitter.com/Mp2r78pjPN
— The Punjab First (News Channel ) (@ThePunjabFirst) February 12, 2025
In a remarkable achievement, Barnala district has taken the lead, successfully issuing UDID cards to more than 70% of its Divyang population. With 9,766 Divyang persons in the district benefiting from the initiative, Barnala has emerged as a role model for other districts in Punjab.
The Importance of UDID Cards for Divyang Persons
The Unique Disability Identity Card (UDID) is a pivotal initiative designed to streamline the process of accessing various government services and welfare schemes. According to Dr. Baljit Kaur, the Social Security, Women, and Child Development Minister, the UDID card is more than just an identification document. It is a gateway for Divyang persons to avail of a wide array of benefits provided by both the central and Punjab governments.
Dr. Kaur explained that the UDID card serves multiple purposes:
- Single Point Access: Divyang persons can use the card to easily avail themselves of benefits like pensions, employment training, medical assistance, and other government support schemes.
- Identification: It provides official recognition for Divyang persons, ensuring that they receive the necessary accommodations and services to lead dignified lives.
The initiative aims to empower persons with disabilities by offering them a comprehensive, easy-to-use solution for accessing government services, thereby improving their quality of life.
Punjab Government’s Commitment to Disability Welfare
Under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government has shown a strong commitment to promoting inclusivity and equal access for all its citizens, particularly the Divyang community. By issuing UDID cards, the government is not only facilitating access to services but also raising awareness about the challenges faced by people with disabilities.
In addition to the UDID initiative, the Punjab government has formed a disability cell aimed at providing Divyang persons with a single-window platform to access various government schemes. This initiative ensures that Divyang persons receive a streamlined process to apply for and receive benefits, without the need to navigate through complex bureaucratic systems.
Barnala’s Success Story: A Model for Punjab
Barnala’s success in issuing UDID cards is a direct result of the collaborative efforts between the Department of Social Security, Women, and Child Development and the Health Department. This partnership has ensured that the district is leading in inclusive governance.
The district’s success is especially significant considering the challenges faced in ensuring widespread accessibility and awareness about the UDID initiative. However, thanks to local efforts, over 9,700 Divyang persons have now received the essential card, which guarantees their eligibility for government schemes.
Dr. Kaur expressed her gratitude to Barnala’s district officials for their proactive approach and urged other districts to follow suit. “Barnala’s achievement is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of both government officials and local communities. It is a model for the rest of Punjab,” she remarked.
How to Apply for a UDID Card
For Divyang persons across Punjab who have not yet received their UDID cards, the Punjab Government is actively encouraging applications. The process is simple and can be completed through multiple avenues:
- Sewa Kendras: Divyang persons can visit these centers for assistance with their applications.
- District Social Security Offices: These offices are designated for handling applications and queries related to UDID cards.
- Civil Hospitals: Medical professionals at civil hospitals can assist in the verification process and provide necessary documentation.
Dr. Kaur emphasized that these facilities are designed to ensure that Divyang persons can easily access the necessary support and apply for their cards without facing unnecessary delays or difficulties.
The Long-Term Impact of UDID Cards
The issuance of UDID cards marks a turning point in how Punjab addresses the needs of Divyang persons. This card not only simplifies the process of accessing government benefits but also symbolizes the state’s commitment to inclusion, ensuring that Divyang persons are not left behind in the pursuit of progress and welfare.
By prioritizing the welfare of persons with disabilities, the Punjab Government is paving the way for more comprehensive and holistic support. Over time, this initiative is expected to create a more inclusive society, where Divyang persons can participate more actively in social, economic, and cultural life.
Looking Ahead: Expansion of Disability Welfare Programs in Punjab
The success of the Barnala district in issuing UDID cards is just the beginning. The Punjab Government is determined to extend these benefits to more Divyang persons across the state. In the coming years, the focus will also be on expanding the disability cell, ensuring that every eligible individual can access the services and schemes available to them.
The state’s vision for a fully inclusive future is clear: no person with a disability should be deprived of the support they need. With continued efforts to improve accessibility and raise awareness, Punjab is moving closer to achieving this goal, making it a model of disability inclusion for other regions of India.