The government has recently stepped up efforts to provide assistive equipment to persons with disabilities and senior citizens through nationwide Samajik Adhikarita Camps.

On September 17, 2026, camps were organised simultaneously at 76 locations across 21 states. More than 58,000 Divyangjan and senior citizens received assistive devices worth nearly ₹68 crore free of cost, based on their assessed requirements.

What is the initiative?

The camps are part of the government's efforts to improve accessibility, mobility and independent living for persons with disabilities and elderly citizens.

The initiative is being carried out by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, in collaboration with the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO).

What kind of assistance is provided?

Eligible beneficiaries can receive assistive devices according to their individual requirements and assessment.

Such equipment is intended to help people with disabilities and senior citizens improve mobility, independence and their ability to perform everyday activities.

The devices are provided free of cost to eligible beneficiaries under the applicable government programme.

Who can benefit?

The initiative primarily covers:

• Persons with disabilities who meet the prescribed eligibility requirements

• Senior citizens requiring eligible assistive devices

• Beneficiaries whose requirements have been assessed through the prescribed process

However, simply being a senior citizen or having a disability does not automatically guarantee a particular device. Eligibility and the type of assistance depend on the applicable government guidelines and individual assessment.

Why are these devices important?

For many elderly people and persons with disabilities, mobility and assistive equipment can make everyday activities considerably easier.

Government support in this area is aimed at improving independence and helping beneficiaries participate more actively in family and community life.

The recent nationwide camps demonstrate the scale at which such assistance is being distributed, with more than 58,000 beneficiaries receiving devices in a single coordinated initiative.

How can eligible people find out about upcoming camps?

Families should keep an eye on announcements from the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, ALIMCO, state authorities and local administration regarding upcoming distribution camps.

Beneficiaries may also need to undergo assessment and provide documents required under the relevant programme before receiving assistance.

People should avoid relying on unofficial agents or paying anyone who claims they can guarantee a government-provided device.

What documents may be required?

The exact requirements can vary depending on the programme and beneficiary category. Applicants may be asked to provide documents establishing their identity, disability or age, along with other information required for assessment and distribution.

It is advisable to check the instructions issued for the particular camp before visiting.

A useful government benefit that many families may overlook

Government assistance is not limited to cash transfers, pensions or subsidies. Programmes providing assistive devices can also offer direct practical support to people who need help with mobility and daily activities.

The September 2026 nationwide camps show that such benefits are being delivered through organised distribution drives across multiple states.

Families with senior citizens or persons with disabilities should therefore regularly check official announcements for upcoming camps and eligibility requirements rather than assuming that these benefits are unavailable to them.