Unique Disability ID

The Unique Disability ID (UDID) card is a critical initiative to provide Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in India with easier access to government services and benefits. , only less than 40% of India’s projected population of PwDs currently holds the UDID card, indicating a significant gap that needs to be addressed.

Key Points to Understand About the UDID Card:

1. Single Document for All PwDs:

   • The UDID card is designed to serve as a universal ID that can be used across the country, making it easier for PwDs to access various government schemes and benefits.

2. Card Structure:

   • The 18-digit UDID includes details such as the state code, district code, disability type, date of birth, and a checksum for security.

   • It helps uniquely identify PwDs and provides a streamlined way to manage records.

3. Color-Coded Cards Based on Disability Severity:

   • White Card: Disability percentage below 40%.

   • Yellow Card: Disability percentage between 40% and 80%.

   • Blue Card: Disability percentage above 80%.

4. Key Objectives of the UDID Project:

   • Centralized Database: The initiative aims to create a national database of PwDs, allowing for better management and tracking of services.

   • Accessibility: The project aims to make the process of obtaining a UDID card more accessible, with online and offline application options.

   • Efficient Medical Assessment: It simplifies the process of determining the disability percentage through medical boards or hospitals.

   • Management of Government Schemes: It ensures the smooth administration of various government programs, avoiding duplication of records and enabling the tracking of beneficiaries' progress.

5. Benefits to PwDs:

   • Access to Services: PwDs can avail themselves of healthcare, social security, financial assistance, and other government schemes.

   • Tracking Progress: The UDID card helps monitor both physical and financial progress of PwDs at all levels — from local to national.

Challenges in Implementation:

Despite the potential benefits, the issuance of UDID cards has been slower than anticipated.

• Awareness: Many PwDs might not be aware of the program or the processes involved in getting a UDID card.

• Geographical Barriers: For people living in remote areas, accessing the medical assessments required for determining the disability percentage might be difficult.

• Technological Issues: Though the system aims to be online, technological gaps in rural or less developed regions could hinder the smooth rollout of the UDID card.