From charity to rights-based welfare: Evaluating scheme penetration and governance efficacy under the National Trust framework
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This descriptive research paper presents a data-driven macro-appraisal of the institutional architecture, scheme penetration, and governance efficacy of India's National Trust framework up to 2026. Enacted under the 1999 Act, this safety net targets high-support neurodevelopmental conditions: Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Intellectual Disability, and Multiple Disabilities. Utilizing secondary records, the study evaluates five flagship schemes (Disha, Vikaas, Samarth, Gharaunda, Badhte Kadam) and Local Level Committees (LLCs). The findings reveal a structured lifecycle pipeline transitioning from pediatric intervention (Disha) to daytime vocational training (Vikaas), short-term respite (Samarth), and lifelong assisted living (Gharaunda). Operational efficiency is maintained through strict capacity controls (baselines of 20–30 PwDs with a 30% emergency cap) and a 1:1 socio-economic matrix balancing public equity with institutional sustainability. However, critical governance vulnerabilities persist due to heavy administrative dependence on localized LLC machinery to execute legal guardianships and protect properties under varying District Magistrate commitments. Significant urban-rural geographic and credit disparities also remain. To mitigate these bottlenecks, the paper proposes a digital overhaul of tracking systems (Forms A–D), a
Authors: G Narayanaswamy, Safeer M Pasha
Institution: Government of Karnataka
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7225152400