Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Government of Maharashtra

The Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Government of Maharashtra, was established in December 2022 as a separate department dedicated to the welfare and empowerment of persons with disabilities across the state. The department was carved out of the earlier Department of Social Justice and Special Assistance to provide focused governance for disability-related schemes. The department administers a comprehensive portfolio of programmes covering education support, vocational rehabilitation, financial assistance, aids and appliances, and inclusive welfare schemes. It serves all seven categories of disability recognised under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, with delivery through district welfare offices and partner institutions. Key programmes include scholarships for school and higher education, rehabilitation and skill development support, and direct benefit transfer schemes for monthly maintenance. The department coordinates with the Cabinet Minister for Persons with Disabilities and is led at the administrative level by an IAS Principal Secretary. The department aims to create an enabling environment where persons with disabilities can pursue education, livelihood, and social participation on equal terms.