Patna: Bihar is home to over 23.31 lakh persons with disabilities, according to Census 2011 data, with hearing impairment emerging as the most prevalent disability category in the state. Of the total, 5.72 lakh individuals are hearing-impaired, followed closely by 5.49 lakh visually impaired persons. In addition, 3.69 lakh people have locomotor disabilities, 1.70 lakh have speech-related impairments, 89,000 live with intellectual disabilities, and around 37,000 suffer from mental illness. More than 5.40 lakh individuals fall under other disability categories.
To support this large and diverse population, the Bihar government is providing pensions to nearly 11 lakh persons with disabilities, ensuring financial stability and social inclusion.
Disability Categories Expanded from 7 to 21 Under New Act
A major policy shift came with the implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, which increased the number of recognized disability categories from 7 to 21. The expanded list includes a wide range of physical and mental disabilities, ensuring broader coverage and inclusivity.
In line with this reform, Bihar established the Directorate of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities under the Social Welfare Department on April 2, 2018. Since then, the state has accelerated the rollout of several schemes tailored to the diverse needs of persons with disabilities.
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Assistive Devices, Therapy, Training, and Rehabilitation Support
Under various state initiatives, persons with disabilities receive free assistive devices, including modern artificial limbs, battery-operated tricycles, hearing aids, and special spectacles. These tools are aimed at enhancing mobility, daily functioning, and independence.
Beyond equipment support, the government also provides:
- Therapy and rehabilitation services
- Skill development and training programs
- Scholarships for students with disabilities
- Financial assistance for competitive exam preparation
- Special schools designed to meet their educational needs
Additionally, infrastructure upgrades such as disabled-friendly government buildings and accessible public transport are being expanded across the state.
Importantly, the government ensures 4% reservation in government jobs for persons with disabilities, opening doors to stable employment and socio-economic empowerment.
Mukhyamantri Divyangjan Sashaktikaran Chhatra Yojana: A Holistic Welfare Approach
Launched in 2017–18, the Mukhyamantri Divyangjan Sashaktikaran Chhatra Yojana (Sambal) aims to bring all disability-related welfare schemes under one umbrella. The objective is to streamline benefits and ensure that persons with disabilities receive comprehensive support for their overall development, without barriers or delays.
The scheme integrates financial aid, assistive devices, education support, rehabilitation, and skill development, making it one of Bihar’s most significant initiatives for inclusive growth.
Government’s Commitment to Inclusive Development
Speaking on the state’s efforts, Vandana Preyashi, Secretary, Social Welfare Department, said:
“The Social Welfare Department is continuously active in supporting persons with disabilities. The government is committed to their inclusive development and is ensuring that every eligible beneficiary receives the full range of welfare schemes seamlessly.”
With over 23 lakh persons with disabilities, Bihar faces a major responsibility—but the state’s expanding welfare programs, infrastructure support, and policy reforms demonstrate a strong commitment to empowering this large community. Through sustained efforts, the government aims to ensure that every person with disability in Bihar receives opportunities for dignity, independence, and equal participation in society.
