Gandhinagar: In a significant step toward improving mobility and independence for persons with disabilities, Bhupendra Patel on Friday distributed motorized tricycles and joystick-operated wheelchairs worth ₹36.7 crore to 5,676 beneficiaries across Gujarat.
The initiative aims to enhance accessibility, reduce physical strain, and enable Divyang individuals to travel independently in their daily lives.
Distribution Launched from Gandhinagar
The distribution program was launched during an event held in Gandhinagar, where the Chief Minister symbolically handed over assistive devices to around 40 beneficiaries.
At the same time, beneficiaries across 34 other districts of Gujarat will also receive these mobility devices as part of the statewide distribution drive.
4,000 Motorized Tricycles and 1,676 Joystick Wheelchairs
Under the campaign:
- 4,000 Divyang beneficiaries will receive motorized tricycles
- 1,676 beneficiaries will receive joystick-operated wheelchairs
These devices are designed to make mobility easier and reduce the physical effort required for movement, especially for those who face difficulty using manually operated equipment.
Implemented Under Assistive Device Support Scheme
The initiative is being implemented under the “Divyang Sahayak Sadhan Sahay Yojana” run by the state’s Gujarat Social Justice and Empowerment Department.
To support the program, the government allocated ₹60 crore in the 2025–26 state budget, enabling the distribution of advanced mobility devices for persons with disabilities.
Shift from Manual to Advanced Mobility Devices
Earlier, beneficiaries under the scheme were provided manual tricycles and standard wheelchairs. According to officials, these required significant physical effort and often made long-distance travel difficult.
With the introduction of motorized tricycles and joystick-controlled wheelchairs, beneficiaries will now be able to move more comfortably and independently.
Increased Financial Assistance for Folding Joystick Wheelchairs
During the event, CM Bhupendra Patel also announced an increase in financial assistance for folding joystick wheelchairs.
Beneficiaries suffering from conditions such as:
- Cerebral Palsy
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Other severe mobility-related disabilities
will now receive financial support of up to ₹1.10 lakh for the purchase of folding joystick-operated wheelchairs.
Eligibility Age Reduced for Muscular Dystrophy Patients
The state government has also reduced the eligibility age for assistance for patients suffering from Muscular Dystrophy.
- Earlier eligibility age: 18 years
- New eligibility age: 10 years
This change ensures that children affected by the disease can receive assistive mobility devices at an earlier stage.
Government Aims to Reach Every Eligible Beneficiary
Addressing the beneficiaries, CM Bhupendra Patel emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring that no eligible Divyang person is deprived of support.
He also directed the Gujarat Social Justice and Empowerment Department to expand the implementation of the scheme and ensure assistive devices reach all eligible beneficiaries across the state.
The initiative reflects the state government’s broader goal of promoting accessibility, inclusivity, and improved quality of life for persons with disabilities in Gujarat.
