Bachpan Day Care Centres

• 03 Jun 2025

Why in News? 

The Uttar Pradesh government is set to expand its initiatives for children with special needs and persons with disabilities by opening Bachpan Day Care Centres in 26 more districts, alongside launching new schemes to improve accessibility, education, rehabilitation, and training. 

Key Points 

• About the Bachpan Day Care Centres: They are specialized facilities established by the Uttar Pradesh government to provide early intervention, care, education, and social training to children with special needs.  
  • These centres aim to nurture the overall development of differently-abled children by offering a supportive and inclusive environment from an early age. 
  • Currently, these centres operate in 25 districts, covering all divisional headquarters and seven aspirational districts. 
    • The seven aspirational districts of UP– Chitrakoot, Fatehpur, Bahraich, Shrawasti, Balrampur, Siddharthnagar, and Chandauli.  
• Accessibility and Infrastructure Improvements: 
  • A new scheme has been proposed to ensure that all stadiums and sports complexes are made fully accessible to persons with disabilities.  
    • Additionally, infrastructure across the state will be upgraded to enhance accessibility and comfort for individuals with disabilities, promoting inclusivity and equal participation in public spaces. 
  • The step aims not only to promote their participation in sports but also to reinforce the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’. 
• Digital Transformation in Special Education: 
  • Introduction of an E-Learning Management System portal for special schools. 
  • Enables real-time monitoring of academic activities and student talents. 
  • Enhances educational quality and fosters the holistic development of children with special needs. 
• Rehabilitation and Support for the Intellectually Challenged: 
  • Plans to establish shelter homes-cum-training centres in every district. 
  • These centres will provide a safe environment and skill-based training. 
  • Supported by government and private entities to encourage independent living. 
• Training and Support for Special Educators: 
  • Introduction of in-service refresher courses and training programmes for special educators. 
  • Aim to keep teachers updated with modern pedagogical methods. 
  • Helps educators better address the evolving needs of students with disabilities. 

Schemes Related to Children with Special Needs 

• Divyang Pension Yojana: The state government’s pension scheme provides monthly financial assistance to disabled persons of 18 years or more, helping improve their livelihood and standard of living. The pension amount is periodically increased to offer better support. 
• Deen Dayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme (DDRS):  The scheme was launched in 1999 and was revised and renamed in 2003. It was previously known as the "Scheme for Promoting Voluntary Action for the Disabled". 
  • DDRS is a Central Sector Scheme that provides financial assistance to voluntary organizations working for the education and rehabilitation of persons with disabilities.