Govt announces 4% central housing quota for persons with disabilities

The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs on Thursday announced a 4% reservation for Persons with Disabilities (PwD) in the allocation of government residential accommodations.

The reservation will apply to housing types up to Type V, including hostels, and will be filled through the monthly Automated System of Allotment (ASA) via the eSampada portal.

Eligible applicants with benchmark disabilities, as defined under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016, will be given priority in the unified waiting list for both initial allotments and changes in accommodation.

They are required to update their profiles and upload a valid Unique Disability ID (UDID) card on the eSampada website, according to a memorandum issued by the ministry.

The respective administrative ministries or departments will verify these details while forwarding applications to the Directorate of Estates.

The registered applicants shall bid under the newly created PwD category on the eSampada website, the memo said.

Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal described the policy as a “landmark step” toward inclusive governance.

"Providing dignified life and inclusive opportunities to the disabled is our priority...Now, Divyangjans will get 4% reservation in the residential facilities of the Central Government. This decision further strengthens our commitment towards equality, respect and rights based society in accordance with the 'Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016'," Khattar posted on X in Hindi.