Assistive Devices and Wheelchair Program – Check Eligibility and Apply Online

Overview

The Assistive Devices and Wheelchair Program (ADWC) is a special initiative launched by the Government of Punjab. Its main goal is to help people with disabilities (PWDs) live better, more independent lives. Many people with disabilities face daily challenges in movement, hearing, or using their limbs. This program is designed to reduce those challenges by offering free assistive devices.

Whether someone needs a wheelchair, a hearing aid, a prosthetic limb, or other helpful equipment like Braille tools or crutches, this program makes it easier for them to get the right support.

➡️ Official Website: adwc.punjab.gov.pk

✅ Devices Offered Under the Program

The ADWC Program offers a wide variety of assistive devices. These devices are grouped into four main categories:

  1. Wheelchairs

This category includes:

  • Manual Active-use Wheelchairs: These are regular wheelchairs that users can push themselves using their arms. They’re strong, lightweight, and suitable for daily use.
  • Pediatric Manual Wheelchairs: These are smaller-sized wheelchairs specially made for children aged 3 and above. They are comfortable and safe for kids with mobility issues.
  • Electric/Motorized Wheelchairs: These wheelchairs run on batteries and are controlled with a joystick. They’re ideal for people who have very limited use of their arms and legs.
  1. Hearing Aids

Hearing aids are tiny electronic devices worn in or behind the ears to help people hear better. Under this program, the government offers:

  • Digital Hearing Aids: These are modern, high-quality devices that come with batteries and custom-made ear molds to fit comfortably.
    They are useful for individuals with moderate to severe hearing loss and can make a big difference in daily communication.
  1. Prosthetics

Prosthetics are artificial limbs that replace missing arms or legs. The program offers:

  • Conventional Above-Knee Prosthetics: These are basic artificial limbs that replace a leg above the knee. They help people stand, walk, and do daily tasks.
  • Modular Below-Knee Prosthetics: These are more advanced and customizable artificial limbs used for below-the-knee amputations. They are more lightweight and allow better movement.
  • Myoelectric Upper Limb Prosthetics: These are high-tech prosthetics for hands or arms. They use muscle signals to move and are very helpful for people who have lost upper limbs.
  1. Other Devices

This category includes many different types of assistive equipment:

  • Mobility Aids: Like tricycles and walking frames that help people move around more easily.
  • Braille Equipment: For people who are blind or visually impaired, Braille tools help them read and write.
  • Crutches and Canes: These help with balance and walking, especially for people who have leg injuries or weakness.

Here’s a quick summary of these devices in table form:

Device Category Types Offered
Wheelchairs Manual Active-use, Pediatric Manual, Electric/Motorized
Hearing Aids Digital hearing aids with batteries and molds
Prosthetics Conventional above-knee, Modular below-knee, Myoelectric upper limb
Other Devices Tricycles, walking frames, Braille equipment, crutches, canes, etc.

General Eligibility Criteria

To receive any device under the ADWC Program, individuals must meet some basic conditions:

  1. Must Be a Resident of Punjab
    Only people living in Punjab can apply for this program.
  2. Valid CNIC or B-Form Required
    Applicants need a Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC). If the applicant is a child or someone with mental impairment, their guardian’s CNIC is needed instead.
  3. Disability Certificate Is Mandatory
    A Disability Certificate must be issued by the Disability Assessment Board. This proves the person’s disability and their eligibility for support.
  4. Need-Based Medical Recommendation
    • For hearing aids, an ENT (Ear-Nose-Throat) specialist at a DHQ or teaching hospital must recommend the device.
    • For wheelchairs or prosthetics, an orthopedic doctor must provide the medical assessment and recommend the most suitable device.

How to Apply

You can apply for assistive devices using one of the following methods:

  • Visit the Nearest Social Welfare and Bait-ul-Maal Office
    A government officer will help you fill out the form and collect your documents.
  • Apply Online
    Use the official website: https://adwc.punjab.gov.pk
  • Call the Helpline: 1312
    You can ask questions or get help in applying.

Wheelchair Assistance Program

The ADWC program pays special attention to wheelchair distribution, as it’s the most commonly requested device.

Types of Government-Provided Wheelchairs

Type Description
Standard Manual Suitable for adults and children who can push the wheelchair using their hands. These are great for daily use.
Electric/Motorized Perfect for people with paralysis or weak limbs. These are battery-powered and easy to control with a joystick.
Pediatric Manual Designed especially for children aged 3 years and older. Smaller in size and safer for young users.

Eligibility for Wheelchairs

  • Must be 3 years or older
  • Weight should be below 150 kg
  • Must have a disability certificate
  • The person’s arms should work properly (upper limb power >3/5)
  • For paraplegic users (those who can’t move their lower limbs), lower limb power should be <2/5
  • People with joint problems or severe arthritis are also eligible

Additional Criteria for Electric Wheelchairs

  • All four limbs are affected
  • Arm strength must be between 2/5 and 3/5
  • Must show proof of needing mobility for education or work

Fund Reservation for Wheelchairs

To make sure everyone gets a fair chance, the government reserves funds like this:

Category Fund Allocation
General Public 80%
Senior Citizens 20%

Hearing Aids Program

Hearing loss can deeply affect communication and learning. The ADWC Program provides modern digital hearing aids to those who need them most.

Features of the Hearing Aids

  • Ergonomic Design: Comfortable to wear
  • Custom-Fit Molds: Tailored to fit the user’s ears
  • Batteries Included: So the device works immediately upon delivery

Eligibility for Hearing Aids

  • Individuals with hearing loss between 50–80 dB (moderate to severe)

Fund Allocation by Age Group

Age Group % Fund Allocation
1–5 years 35%
5–16 years 25%
16–60 years 30%
Above 60 10%

This means that younger children get more priority, as early hearing support can improve speech and learning skills.

Prosthetics Support Program

Prosthetic limbs allow people to walk, grab things, and regain control of their lives after accidents, injuries, or birth defects.

Types of Prosthetics Provided

Type Description
Above-Knee Traditional prosthetics for people who have lost a leg above the knee.
Below-Knee Modular and adjustable limbs for below-knee amputations. These are more flexible and comfortable.
Upper Limb (Myoelectric) High-tech prosthetic hands or arms that move using muscle signals. Ideal for users who want more natural movement.

Fund Allocation for Prosthetics

Type % Allocation
Conventional (Above-Knee) 35%
Modular (Below-Knee) 35%
Myoelectric (Upper Limb) 30%

This fair division ensures equal support for both leg and arm prosthetic users.

Other Assistive Devices

People with disabilities often need more than just wheelchairs or hearing aids. That’s why ADWC also offers a range of daily living aids and mobility tools.

Types of Other Devices

Device Type Examples
Mobility Devices Tricycles, tri-motorcycles, walking frames, rollators
Orthopedic Aids Knee braces, axillary crutches (underarm), elbow crutches, canes
Daily Living Aids Mobile toilet chairs, Braille reading/writing tools

General Requirements

  • Must have a disability certificate
  • The device should have a life expectancy of more than 3 years
  • The user must be physically fit enough to operate the device

ADWC Program Statistics (as of 2025)

Here’s a snapshot of how much progress the program has made so far:

Metric Value
Total Applications 27,205
Verified Applications 14,249
Devices Distributed (latest batch) 120
Most Requested Device Wheelchairs (17,196 applications)

Breakdown of Devices Delivered in Latest Batch

Device Quantity
Manual Active-use Wheelchairs 52
Pediatric Manual Wheelchairs 6
Electric Wheelchairs 13
Hearing Aids 3
Tricycles 8
Others (Canes, Crutches, Toilet Chairs, etc.) 38

This data shows that wheelchairs are in the highest demand, and the government is actively working to meet that need.

“Special Friends” Program by Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal

Apart from the ADWC Program, another great initiative is the “Special Friends” Program by Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal (PBM). It supports families that have one or more PWDs.

Benefits Provided

  • Rs. 20,000 per year for families with 1 PWD
  • Rs. 30,000 per year for families with 2 or more PWDs
  • Free devices such as:
    • Wheelchairs
    • Hearing Aids
    • White Canes
    • Artificial Limbs

Eligibility Criteria

  • Valid CNIC or B-Form
  • A disability certificate, or a clear photo showing disability
  • For customized wheelchairs, apply online through PBM (available in 21 selected districts)

Application Tracking and Follow-up

Once you’ve applied, you can easily track your application or lodge a complaint:

❓ FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

  1. Who is eligible for the ADWC Program?
    Residents of Punjab with a valid CNIC/B-Form and a verified disability certificate.
  2. What types of devices are available?
    Wheelchairs, hearing aids, prosthetics, mobility aids, and daily living tools like Braille equipment.
  3. How do I apply?
    Apply online or go to the nearest Bait-ul-Maal or Social Welfare office.
  4. Can I track my application?
    Yes, through the official portal.
  5. What if I have a complaint?
    Call 1312 or use the complaint section on the website.

📞 Contact Information