A delegation of parliamentarians, led by Smt. Rami Devi, a member of Lok Sabha from Bihar, visited the Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS) to inspect the manufacturing process of the renowned Jaipur Foot.
The parliamentary consultative committee, including members Rami Devi, Ramila Ben Bara, Mamta Mohanta, Ranjita Koli, and N Chandrasegaran, observed the production of the Jaipur Foot and interacted with disabled individuals from across the country seeking rehabilitation.
During their visit, the delegation inquired about the quality of the Jaipur Foot and engaged in discussions with Dr. Mehta, the founder and chief patron of BMVSS. Dr. Mehta informed the parliamentarians that BMVSS has emerged as a global leader in the rehabilitation of the disabled, operating in 42 countries.
Expressing concerns over the rehabilitation process, Dr. Mehta emphasized the need for simplifying conditions and procedures. He highlighted that, according to a 2011 survey, there are 2.68 crore disabled individuals in the country requiring rehabilitation. Dr Mehta urged the Union ministry to expedite the rehabilitation process while ensuring simplicity and accountability in the procedures.
One of the key issues discussed was the imposition of GST on aids and appliances by NGOs, even when provided free to disabled individuals. Dr Mehta urged the Union government to waive the GST on such essential aids and appliances.
Additionally, he advocated for the inclusion of disabled individuals under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, allowing them to receive Rs five lakh free for aids and appliances, aligning it with the benefits provided for medical treatments.
Smt. Rami Devi appreciated the insights presented by Dr. Mehta and the executive committee members. She assured that she would address these concerns with the Union ministry and the Speaker of Lok Sabha, acknowledging the commendable role played by BMVSS in India and internationally.
The delegation was warmly received by BMVSS executives, including executive presidents S S Bhandari and Salauddin Ahmed, secretaries D Bhuepndra Mehta and Dr. Deependra Mehta, treasurer Vimal Chopra, and CEOs SS Bissa and R K Agarwal.
