Panaji: The Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities has notified a scheme offering financial assistance of up to Rs 1 lakh, free medical treatment and rehabilitation support to acid attack survivors residing in Goa.
Under the Rehabilitation of Acid Attack Victims Scheme, eligible survivors will receive Rs 25,000 as immediate financial assistance, preferably within 48 hours of the department receiving information or an application through the District Collector or District Magistrate.
An additional Rs 75,000 may be sanctioned within 15 days of verification. The assistance will be available over and above compensation or benefits under existing schemes.
The govt will fully fund medically necessary treatment arising from an acid attack at government hospitals or government-approved private hospitals.
Reconstructive or plastic surgery will also be covered wherever medically required, without an arbitrary limit on the number of surgeries. If specialised treatment is unavailable in Goa, survivors may be referred to recognised institutions outside the state. Approved expenses for treatment, travel, accommodation and an attendant will be covered.
Survivors who have suffered disability will also be entitled to a monthly pension under the Dayanand Social Security Scheme.
The department will facilitate psychological and family counselling, education scholarships, free skill development, employment opportunities and self-employment assistance.
The scheme also provides for disability certification, assistive devices, free legal assistance, housing support and temporary shelter for survivors who cannot safely return home. These benefits will be available in addition to compensation under other government schemes, subject to the respective rules.
