Yogi govt empowers 13,991 differently-abled children with Escort Allowance for education
Lucknow Focus News Desk: When a divyang (differently-abled) child is unable to attend school alone, education remains confined to books. Recognising this challenge, the Yogi government has approved Rs 839.46 lakh under the Escort Allowance Scheme to support 13,991 severely and multiply disabled students from Classes 1 to 8 in council-run primary, upper primary, and composite schools during the 2025–26 academic year. This initiative reaffirms the state’s commitment to inclusive education and ensures no child is left behind.
Under the Escort Allowance Scheme, visually impaired children, intellectually disabled children, those suffering from cerebral palsy, and those affected by JE/AES will receive Rs 600 per month for 10 months through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), ensuring their regular attendance at school. This is not just financial aid but a strong step toward inclusive education, powered by a coordinated use of the Prerna Portal and PFMS system, combining technology, transparency, and compassion. It reflects a governance model where policy and sensitivity go hand in hand—where even a child unable to walk independently can dream of studying.
The implementation of this scheme relies significantly on the Prerna and Samarth portals, where the eligibility of students will first be verified. Certified documents proving at least 40% disability are mandatory, along with regular school attendance as a basic requirement.
To ensure fairness and transparency, responsibilities have been assigned at every level from school to district. School principals will identify eligible students, the Block Education Officer will verify the list, and final approval will be given by the District Basic Education Officer. Post this, Aadhaar and bank verification will be carried out through the PFMS portal to ensure secure disbursement.
According to the guidelines of the FMP Manual 2024, the entire scheme is to be implemented by September 30. All payments will be made under the designated head, and in the case of duplicate payments or fund mismanagement, the concerned officials will be held accountable.
“This scheme is more than financial aid—it’s a vision that no child should be denied education. Uttar Pradesh’s policies reflect compassion, clarity, and commitment. In our inclusive education model, technology and empathy go hand in hand, because education matters only when it reaches every child—whether they can walk or not.”
Sandeep Singh, Basic Education Minister, Government of Uttar Pradesh
