Maharashtra Launches Divyang Sahayak Portal for Easy Online Disability Schemes

Maharashtra State government has launched the Divyang Sahayak Portal. Which is described as India’s first fully integrated online platform for disability welfare schemes. Announced in February 2026 the portal removes paperwork and physical visits for persons with disabilities. It enables online applications, real-time tracking, automatic approvals, and AI-based grievance redressal. The initiative aims to strengthen implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 and ensure faster, transparent delivery of benefits.

What Is Divyang Sahayak Portal?

The Divyang Sahayak Portal is a one stop digital platform for persons with disabilities in Maharashtra.

• It allows citizens to search, apply and track welfare schemes without remembering scheme names.
• The system uses demographic data to automatically suggest eligible schemes.
• It eliminates manual paperwork and reduces procedural delays.
• Officials say it improves implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
• The entire process from application to approval is handled online.
• Built-in timelines ensure that applications are not stuck at any stage.

The Divyang Sahayak Portal aims to ensure that no eligible beneficiary is left out.

Key Features of Divyang Sahayak Portal in Maharashtra

Fully digital application process for individuals and institutions.

• No need to submit physical documents.
• Real-time tracking of application status.
• Built-in Service Level Agreements (SLAs) to ensure timely approvals.
• Auto-forward system if officials delay action.
• Integrated grievance redressal mechanism.
• Dedicated department dashboard for monitoring.

The Divyang Sahayak Portal is designed to improve transparency and accountability in welfare scheme delivery.

Technology Behind Divyang Sahayak Portal: API and AI Integration

The portal uses Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to connect with existing government databases.

• Currently integrated with Unique Disability ID (UDID) system.
• Linked with Aadhaar through Meri Pehchan and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) platform.
• Integration with PAN, GST, bank details, e-Sign and other systems is underway.
• AI tools scan uploaded documents and flag incomplete files.
• AI helps in grievance redressal by sorting and summarising complaints.

The use of AI and API makes the Divyang Sahayak Portal faster and more efficient.

Modules of Divyang Sahayak Portal: Complete Digital Structure

The portal is structured into 11 modules.

• Currently, four modules are ready to go live.
• Includes unified scheme delivery system.
• Citizen grievance redressal system.
• Institution information management system.
• Digital marketplace for persons with disabilities.
• Budget utilisation monitoring tools.
• Accessibility audit management.
• Early intervention centre and rehabilitation centre management.
• Remaining modules will be launched in phases to expand the Divyang Sahayak Portal’s capabilities.

About Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016

• The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 replaced the earlier 1995 law to expand rights and protections for persons with disabilities in India.
• It increased the number of recognised disabilities from 7 to 21 and strengthened provisions for education, employment, accessibility and social security.
• The Act mandates government departments to ensure equal opportunities and proper implementation of welfare schemes.
• The Divyang Sahayak Portal directly supports this law by improving access, transparency and monitoring of disability benefits in Maharashtra.

Question

Q. Which state launched the Divyang Sahayak Portal?

A) Gujarat
B) Maharashtra
C) Karnataka
D) Tamil Nadu