Nethrodaya, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) in Chennai, has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to relax the age criteria under Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) and to remove the 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on assistive devices.
In a letter addressed to the Prime Minister, founder, Nethrodaya, urged him to extend the health coverage to citizens with disabilities on a par with that of senior citizens, with age relaxations, considering their unique medical conditions and reduced life expectancy.
He asked that the GST on assistive devices be removed as this would make them more affordable. “Removing the 5% GST on assistive devices, as with over 100 other essential commodities, will promote the independence and dignity of persons with disabilities,” he added.
