Budget 2026 Pushes Assistive Technology and Skills for Divyangjan Empowerment

Budget 2026 Focuses on Inclusive Empowerment of Divyangjan

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has announced a set of targeted initiatives in the Union Budget 2026 to strengthen the social and economic empowerment of Divyangjan. The measures place strong emphasis on assistive technology, artificial limb manufacturing, and livelihood creation, aligning with the government’s inclusive development philosophy of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas and the long-term vision of a Viksit Bharat .

Boost to Assistive Device Manufacturing

A central feature of the Budget proposals is enhanced institutional support for the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) . The government aims to expand ALIMCO’s manufacturing capacity to produce high-quality assistive devices at affordable costs. The strategy includes adopting advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence in product design, testing, and production, enabling more precise and user-specific solutions for persons with disabilities.

Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana: Skills and Employability

The Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana has been introduced to link assistive device manufacturing with skill development and employment generation. Under this initiative, Divyangjan will have access to customised artificial limbs and assistive aids developed through AI-based interventions. In addition, industry-aligned training programmes will help participants acquire market-relevant skills, improving employability and supporting dignified livelihood opportunities across manufacturing and service sectors.

Divyang Sahara Yojana and Distribution Infrastructure

The Divyang Sahara Yojana is designed to strengthen the overall assistive technology ecosystem. It focuses on increasing ALIMCO’s output, promoting research and development, and integrating AI into next-generation assistive devices. The scheme also supports the expansion of PM Divyasha Kendras and the establishment of Assistive Technology Marts , which will function as accessible, modern centres for the distribution of aids and appliances to Divyangjan across the country.

Important Facts for Exams

• ALIMCO is a PSU under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

• Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana emphasises skills and AI-enabled assistive manufacturing.

• Divyang Sahara Yojana focuses on R&D, production, and distribution of assistive devices.

• PM Divyasha Kendras provide aids and appliances to persons with disabilities.

Technology-Driven Inclusion as a Policy Pillar

The Budget 2026 measures reflect a deliberate effort to integrate technology with social inclusion. By combining artificial intelligence, assistive manufacturing, and structured skill development, the government aims to move from welfare-based support to long-term empowerment. These initiatives are expected to enhance mobility, employability, and independence for Divyangjan, reinforcing inclusion as a foundational element of India’s development strategy.