At the 7th Central Advisory Board meeting held in New Delhi, Tamil Nadu’s Minister for Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare, Dr. M. Mathiventhan, presented a memorandum urging the Union Government to back several critical welfare initiatives. The minister highlighted the state’s proactive measures for disability welfare and requested additional central support to strengthen ongoing programs.
Key Demands Presented by Tamil Nadu
Dr. Mathiventhan’s memorandum outlined several key requests, focusing on enhancing transparency, efficiency, and funding for welfare initiatives:
- Two-Way API Access to the UDID Database
- Tamil Nadu requested seamless access to the Unique Disability ID (UDID) database to improve data sharing and service delivery.
- Funding Requests
- ₹2.21 crore for establishing the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities.
- ₹25 crore to upgrade the Centre of Excellence for Autism Spectrum Disorder.
- Transparency in Welfare Schemes
- Introduction of annual reports detailing scholarship disbursals and the Deen Dayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme (DDRS).
- Increase in Pension Contributions
- The state urged the Union Government to increase its contribution to the Indira Gandhi Disability Pension Scheme from ₹300 to fully fund the ₹1,500 monthly assistance, benefiting 5.29 lakh recipients in Tamil Nadu.
Concerns Over Cooperative Federalism
In a related parliamentary debate marking 75 years of the Constitution, DMK MP S. Jegathratchagan voiced concerns about the Union Government’s approach to cooperative federalism.
Key Points Raised by the MP
- State Autonomy: Alleged violations of constitutional principles through laws undermining state rights.
- Core Values: Criticized actions perceived as threats to secularism, equality, and justice.
- Welfare Priorities: Highlighted the importance of respecting state initiatives and ensuring equitable policy decisions.
FAQs
1. What is the UDID database, and why is it important?
The Unique Disability ID (UDID) database is a centralized system for maintaining records of persons with disabilities. Two-way API access would enable Tamil Nadu to enhance service delivery and track welfare initiatives efficiently.
2. How will additional funding benefit Tamil Nadu?
The requested funds will establish the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities and improve the Centre of Excellence for Autism Spectrum Disorder, bolstering disability welfare infrastructure.
3. What is the DDRS scheme?
The Deen Dayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme (DDRS) aims to support NGOs providing services to persons with disabilities, ensuring rehabilitation and skill development opportunities.
4. What changes are proposed for the Indira Gandhi Disability Pension Scheme?
Tamil Nadu has requested the Union Government to increase its contribution from ₹300 to fully cover the ₹1,500 monthly pension for all 5.29 lakh beneficiaries in the state.
5. What are the constitutional concerns raised by DMK MP S. Jegathratchagan?
The MP criticized the Union Government for actions that allegedly undermine cooperative federalism and violate core constitutional values like equality and secularism.
6. How does cooperative federalism impact welfare programs?
Cooperative federalism ensures that state and central governments work together to implement welfare programs efficiently, respecting each other’s autonomy.
7. What is the Centre of Excellence for Autism Spectrum Disorder?
This facility focuses on research, diagnosis, and treatment of autism spectrum disorders, aiming to provide specialized care and support.
8. What are the implications of these demands for disability welfare?
If approved, these measures would significantly improve transparency, service delivery, and financial support for disability welfare initiatives in Tamil Nadu.
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