The announcement to establish Disability Rehabilitation Centres (DRCs) across all districts in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir brought hope and anticipation for thousands of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). This scheme, envisaged to be a transformative step towards the rehabilitation, empowerment, and social integration of PwDs, remains mired in bureaucratic delays for over 18 months. The lack of visible progress has left many PwDs without essential services and support that could profoundly enhance their quality of life and restore their sense of autonomy.
The DRCs, once operational, promise comprehensive rehabilitative support through a suite of services tailored to the specific challenges PwDs face. These centres will conduct district-wide surveys to identify PwDs, help facilitate disability certification, and assist in obtaining the Unique Disability Identity Card, which is crucial for availing various concessions, including travel passes and other essential facilities. Beyond that, the centres will generate awareness of early detection and prevention of disabilities, offer vocational training, and provide referrals for necessary surgeries or assistive devices.
In practice, however, none of these facilities can be accessed across the UT’s districts because the infrastructure remains a distant promise. Despite repeated claims by Social Welfare Department officials that proposals have been sent to the Ministry of Social Justice, there is a conspicuous lack of follow-up action. The duty to facilitate communication and expedite processes falls as much on the state officials as it does on the Union Ministry, highlighting the need for a collaborative approach. Each layer of delay exacerbates the daily hardships of PwDs, who continue to remain on the peripheries of meaningful social integration and economic independence.
The delay in setting up DRCs is more than an administrative lapse; it represents a lost opportunity for thousands of PwDs to access essential services that could alleviate or even reverse the cycle of dependency and socio-economic marginalisation. Rehabilitation services in well-functioning DRCs include assessments for assistive devices, periodic maintenance, vocational training, and support for self-employment through bank linkages. For a PwD struggling with mobility or communication, these services could mean the difference between a life constrained by limitations and one where they can actively participate in society.
Further, the DRCs have a wider role in maintaining a data repository of all organisations that work towards disability empowerment within each district. This system of comprehensive data gathering and tracking is essential for evaluating the progress and identifying new areas where services are needed. Without the establishment of these DRCs, however, no coherent database can be developed, which will inevitably hamper efforts to create a more inclusive and accessible environment for PwDs across J&K.
The District Collector or Magistrate leads the District Management Team, which oversees each DRC. This cross-functional team ensures that the centres operate efficiently, delivering comprehensive, coordinated support. However, in the absence of the centres, none of these coordination efforts can materialise, leaving a critical void in the systematic support for PwDs.
At a fundamental level, the delay reflects a worrying apathy towards the disabled community, signalling that their needs remain low on the priority list. Jammu and Kashmir has a large PwD population, and it is incumbent upon both the state and central governments to ensure that their rights and welfare are not only recognised but actively promoted through well-implemented initiatives. Disability rights are a core element of social justice, and failing to provide such crucial facilities is to fall short of commitments.
The Social Welfare Department and the Union Ministry of Social Justice must collectively redouble their efforts and work in harmony to bring this initiative to fruition. Swift action is needed to expedite the establishment of DRCs. PwDs deserve these centres on priority. Establishing these centres will not only enhance the quality of life for PwDs but also contribute to a more inclusive and progressive society.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
