National Handicrafts Development Programme: Infrastructure And Technology Support: EMPORIA 2026

The HEPSN scheme aims to make higher education accessible for persons with disabilities, supporting institutions to create Read More... an inclusive learning environment. Read less

Details

India is committed to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities, has access to quality education. The Higher Education for Persons with Special Needs (HEPSN) scheme, backed by the University Grants Commission (UGC), plays a crucial role in making this vision a reality for students with disabilities in colleges and universities across the country.

What Is This Scheme?

The HEPSN scheme is designed to foster an environment in higher education institutions that enriches the learning journey for individuals with disabilities. It focuses on raising awareness about their capabilities, making campuses more accessible, and providing essential equipment to support their studies.

Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?

This scheme is for higher education institutions that enroll students with disabilities. It aims to support these institutions in providing the necessary facilities and resources to ensure these students have an equal opportunity to learn and succeed.

Why This Scheme Is Important

The HEPSN scheme is vital because it aligns with the spirit of the Persons with Disabilities Act 1995, which mandates equal educational opportunities for all. By providing financial assistance and guidance, it empowers colleges and universities to create a truly inclusive academic space for students with special needs.

Objective

The HEPSN scheme aims to make higher education accessible for persons with disabilities, supporting institutions to create an inclusive learning environment.

Benefits

Financial Assistance and Funding Pattern:

The component-wise financial ceiling for emporia will be as mentioned: New emporia (Rented/Own building); Per Unit Cost (₹): 60,00,000. Strengthening / Renovation; Per Unit Cost (₹): 15,00,000.

80% of the admissible amount shall be borne by the O/o the DC (H) and 20% will be contributed by the implementing agency subject to the ceiling specified.

In the case of NER, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep- 90% of the admissible amount will be borne by the O/o the DC (H) and 10% shall be contributed by the implementing agency.

100% assistance will be borne by the Office of the DC (Handicrafts) for the Strengthening / Renovation of the existing Emporia.

The rental amount will be borne by the IA.

Sources and references

Guidelines

Eligibility Criteria

The college must have enrolled students with disabilities, including those with visual, hearing, or locomotor impairments, in its courses. The definition of disability follows the Persons with Disabilities Act 1995.
Institutions applying must be recognized by the UGC under Sections 2(f) and 12B.
The college should have formed an expert committee comprising faculty, field experts, and individuals with disabilities. This committee must meet at least annually to review scheme-related activities.

How To Apply

Colleges interested in implementing the HEPSN scheme need to follow the application procedures set by the University Grants Commission (UGC). While specific dates and application links may be announced by the UGC, typically, applications are submitted through official channels. Colleges are advised to check the official UGC website for any new notifications or updates regarding the application process for the HEPSN scheme.

For more detailed information, colleges can refer to the official UGC guidelines and notifications.

Official Website: University Grants Commission (UGC)

Documents Required

While the primary focus of the HEPSN scheme is on institutional support, individuals seeking disability certification for accessing various benefits should be aware of the general documentation usually required:

Aadhaar Card
2 Passport-Sized Photographs (Signed Across)
Residential Certificate
Disability Certificate (issued by competent medical authority)
Bank Account Details (Bank Name, Branch Name, Address, IFSC Code)
Proof of Latest Educational Qualification (Passing Certificate or Marksheet)
Bonafide Certificate from the School/College
Any other document specified by the relevant authorities or the institution.

FAQ’s

What is the main goal of the HEPSN scheme?

The primary goal of the HEPSN (Higher Education for Persons with Special Needs) scheme is to create an inclusive environment in higher education institutions across India, ensuring that students with disabilities have access to enriching learning experiences.

How can colleges use the grant for campus accessibility?

Colleges can use the grant of up to ₹5,00,000 to make their campuses more accessible. This includes building ramps, installing special toilets, and modifying both existing structures and future constructions to ensure easy mobility and independent functioning for differently-abled persons, as per the Persons with Disabilities Act 1995.

Does the scheme provide financial aid for individual students?

The HEPSN scheme primarily supports higher education institutions in creating an enabling environment. While it focuses on institutional development like accessibility and equipment, it does not directly provide individual student scholarships. However, the support provided to institutions indirectly benefits students by improving their access to education.

What kind of equipment can be procured under the HEPSN scheme?

Under the HEPSN scheme, colleges can procure special equipment to augment educational services for students with disabilities. This can include devices like computers with screen reading software, low-vision aids, scanners, mobility devices, and also support for readers for visually challenged students, up to a grant of ₹1,50,000 per college.

Who is responsible for coordinating the Enabling Unit in a college?

In a college, a faculty member nominated by the head of the institution will coordinate the Enabling Unit. This honorary coordinator will receive a token honorarium of ₹4,000 per month for their services.

What is the role of the Enabling Unit?

The Enabling Unit in a college plays a key role in facilitating the admission of differently-abled persons, providing guidance and counseling, creating awareness about their learning needs, and assisting them in finding employment opportunities after graduation.

Are there any specific laws that the HEPSN scheme adheres to?

Yes, the HEPSN scheme is guided by the principles and requirements of the Persons with Disabilities Act 1995, ensuring that the institutions receiving support comply with the legal framework for disability rights in education.

How much financial assistance can a college receive for accessibility improvements?

A college can receive a one-time grant of up to ₹5,00,000 per college during the Plan period specifically for addressing accessibility issues related to disability and making special arrangements for mobility and independent functioning.