Sahayogi Centre: A One Stop Centre for Disabled (Divyangjan)

In the heart of Bathinda, a transformative initiative is reshaping the landscape of accessibility and support for specially-abled individuals. The Sahayogi Centre, established on January 15, 2024, in the Emergency ward of Shaheed Bhai Mani Singh Civil Hospital, is a pioneering one-stop center designed to empower the specially-abled community by providing a synergy of services under one roof. This ongoing project aims to achieve 100% saturation in UDID (Unique Disability Identity) Card penetration and ensure timely access to aids and appliances for all eligible individuals.

Executive Summary

The Sahayogi Centre is more than just a building; it is a commitment to dignity, independence, and societal integration for those with special abilities. By merging rehabilitation, disability assessment, social security benefits, and education, the Centre stands as a beacon of hope for the specially-abled citizens of Bathinda. This initiative promises a future where services are accessible, efficient, and comprehensive, making it a revolution in accessibility and empowerment.

Addressing Challenges

The Sahayogi Centre addresses significant challenges faced by the specially-abled community, such as fragmented services, limited UDID card coverage, and educational barriers. Previously, individuals had to visit multiple departments for health assessments, certifications, social security benefits, and aids, causing inconvenience and delays. Only 50% had access to UDID cards due to inadequate outreach. Additionally, there were no district-level facilitators to guide them about their rights and benefits under various government schemes.

Impact and Solutions

Since its inception, the Sahayogi Centre has impacted hundreds of specially-abled individuals in Bathinda by providing centralized services. The establishment of a one-stop service facility simplifies access to health assessments, certifications, and aids, reducing the need for multiple visits. The implementation of a saturation model for UDID cards aims to achieve 100% coverage, ensuring all eligible individuals are registered and receive their entitlements promptly. Collaborations with AIIMS Bathinda for neurological assessments and ALIMCO for providing aids like motorized cycles and wheelchairs significantly improve accessibility and support. The Centre also plans to sign an MoU with educational institutes to enhance the skills and employability of specially-abled individuals.

Strategic Implementation

The Centre's strategic approaches include:

1. Centralized Service Facility: Consolidating various services under one roof simplifies access and reduces the need for multiple visits.

2. Scheme Integration: Integrating schemes such as the Deen Dayal Divyangjan Rehabilitation Scheme and Rashtriya Vayoshree Yojana provides a comprehensive support system.

3. Saturation Model for UDID Cards: Ensuring all eligible individuals are registered and receive their entitlements.

4. Collaborations: Partnering with AIIMS Bathinda for neurological assessments and ALIMCO for aids provision.

5. On-Site Expert Services: Weekly visits from physiologists and speech therapists to address therapeutic needs.

Stakeholder Involvement

The initiative involves a diverse range of stakeholders, including:

• District Administrator: Coordinating with various departments and overseeing the project.

• NGO: The Red Cross Society supports outreach activities and logistical execution.

• Department of Social Justice and Empowerment: Ensuring timely disbursement of pensions and entitlements.

• ASHA and Anganwadi Workers: Conducting surveys and gathering data on the needs of specially-abled citizens.

Key Differentiators

The Sahayogi Centre stands out due to its comprehensive approach and impactful execution. Key differentiators include:

1. Expansion of Existing Facilities: Centralizing services at the District Disability Rehabilitation Centre.

2. Streamlined Administrative Processes: On-spot documentation for efficient disbursement of benefits.

3. Enhanced Accessibility through Collaboration: Localized medical assessments through AIIMS Bathinda.

4. Comprehensive Aid Provision: Diverse and high-quality aids from ALIMCO.

5. On-Site Therapeutic Support: Weekly visits from experts for holistic development.

6. Saturation Model for UDID Cards: Aiming for full coverage in UDID card distribution.

7. Effective Support Mechanisms: Enhancing integration and participation of the specially-abled community.

Sustainability and Scalability

The integration of multiple schemes and the establishment of a centralized facility ensure long-term viability and continuous support. The saturation model for UDID card distribution provides a scalable framework that can be expanded to other districts. The project is cost-effective by consolidating services and leveraging existing resources and partnerships, while its comprehensive approach provides a clear template for replication.

Publicity and Awareness Campaigns

To raise awareness, several campaigns were conducted, including:

• Media Outreach: Advertisements in newspapers and local radio stations.

• Community Engagement: Block-wise camps and surveys by ASHA and Anganwadi workers.

• Workshops and Training: Training sessions for grassroots-level workers.

• Digital Platforms: Development of an online portal for service access, feedback collection, and complaint lodging.

Conclusion

The Sahayogi Centre in Bathinda is a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to public service. By centralizing services and fostering an inclusive approach, the Centre has significantly enhanced the quality of life for specially-abled individuals, paving the way for their greater independence and societal integration. This initiative serves as a model for similar projects across the nation, demonstrating the profound impact of thoughtful and comprehensive support for the specially-abled community.