Model Answer

Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) constitute one of the most vulnerable sections of society. However, disability pensions in India remain fragmented across states, leading to significant disparities in coverage and benefits. In this context, a Uniform Nationwide Disability Pension System can serve as a crucial instrument for ensuring social justice and inclusive development.

Constitutional and Legal Basis

The demand for a uniform pension framework derives legitimacy from multiple constitutional and legal provisions:

Article 41 directs the State to provide public assistance in cases of disablement. Article 21, as interpreted by the Supreme Court, guarantees the right to live with dignity. Section 24 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 mandates adequate social security and non-discriminatory welfare measures for PwDs. It also aligns with India's commitments under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). Socio-Economic Rationale Eliminates regional disparities wherein pension amounts vary significantly across states. Provides a minimum income floor, reducing poverty and vulnerability among PwDs. Enhances access to healthcare, nutrition, education, and assistive technologies. Generates positive economic multipliers through increased household consumption and labour market participation. Supports the vision of inclusive growth and "Leave No One Behind" under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Key Challenges Fiscal constraints and concerns regarding long-term sustainability. Fragmented administrative structure involving multiple ministries and departments. Difficulties in disability certification, beneficiary identification, and data integration. Variations in state capacities and concerns regarding cooperative federalism. Way Forward Establish a Minimum Universal Disability Pension Floor Rate (MUDPFR) across India. Create a National Disability Pension Authority for unified implementation and monitoring. Leverage Aadhaar-enabled DBT and portability mechanisms. Integrate pensions with skill development, wage subsidies, and employment incentives. Develop a dynamic national disability registry to ensure transparency and inclusion. Conclusion

A uniform disability pension system should be viewed not as a welfare handout but as a rights-based entitlement rooted in constitutional morality. Ensuring financial security and dignity for PwDs is essential for building an inclusive and equitable Viksit Bharat.