National Trust Act Legal Provisions Every Family Should Know

National Trust Act: The National Trust for Welfare of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2008, is a significant piece of legislation in India that aims to provide comprehensive welfare services to persons with disabilities. The Act establishes a National Trust Fund and empowers the Central and State Governments to formulate schemes for the benefit of this vulnerable population. This article will delve into some of the key legal provisions of the National Trust Act that every family should be aware of.

National Trust Act: Key Legal Provisions Every Family Should Know:Chennai Law Forum

Establishment of the National Trust Fund

The National Trust Fund is the cornerstone of the Act. It is a corpus of funds established by the Central Government to finance various welfare schemes for persons with disabilities. The Fund is primarily financed through contributions from the Central and State Governments, as well as donations from individuals, corporations, and other entities.

Objectives of the National Trust Fund

The National Trust Fund has several objectives, including:

Providing financial assistance for the education, rehabilitation, and vocational training of persons with disabilities.
Establishing and maintaining sheltered workshops and employment centers for persons with disabilities.
Promoting research and development in the field of disability.
Creating awareness about the rights and needs of persons with disabilities.
Supporting the establishment and functioning of voluntary organizations working for the welfare of persons with disabilities.

Rights of Persons with Disabilities

The National Trust Act also reinforces the rights of persons with disabilities. It mandates that every person with a disability has the right to:

Equal opportunities in education, employment, and social services.
Live with dignity and respect.
Participate fully in society.
Be free from discrimination.

Legal Guardianship

The Act provides for the appointment of legal guardians for persons with disabilities who are unable to manage their own affairs. A legal guardian is responsible for protecting the interests of the person with a disability and making decisions on their behalf.

Rehabilitation and Rehabilitation Council

The National Trust Act establishes a Rehabilitation Council of India to oversee and coordinate rehabilitation services for persons with disabilities. The Council is responsible for setting standards for rehabilitation services, promoting research and development in the field, and accrediting rehabilitation institutions.

Sheltered Workshops and Employment Centers

The Act encourages the establishment of sheltered workshops and employment centers to provide employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. These centers are designed to provide a supportive environment where individuals with disabilities can learn new skills and contribute to the workforce.

Research and Development

The National Trust Act promotes research and development in the field of disability. This includes research on the causes, prevention, and treatment of disabilities, as well as the development of assistive technologies and rehabilitation techniques.

Awareness Creation

The Act emphasizes the importance of creating awareness about the rights and needs of persons with disabilities. It encourages the Central and State Governments to undertake public awareness campaigns and educational programs to promote understanding and acceptance of individuals with disabilities.

Voluntary Organizations

The National Trust Act recognizes the valuable role played by voluntary organizations in the welfare of persons with disabilities. It provides financial assistance and support to these organizations to enable them to carry out their activities effectively.

FAQs on the National Trust Act

1. What is the National Trust for Welfare of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2008?

The National Trust for Welfare of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2008, is a significant piece of legislation in India that aims to provide comprehensive welfare services to persons with disabilities. It establishes a National Trust Fund and empowers the Central and State Governments to formulate schemes for the benefit of this vulnerable population.

2. What are the key objectives of the National Trust Fund?

The National Trust Fund has several objectives, including:

Providing financial assistance for the education, rehabilitation, and vocational training of persons with disabilities.
Establishing and maintaining sheltered workshops and employment centers for persons with disabilities.
Promoting research and development in the field of disability.

3. What are the rights of persons with disabilities under the National Trust Act?

The National Trust Act mandates that every person with a disability has the right to:

Equal opportunities in education, employment, and social services.
Live with dignity and respect.
Participate fully in society.
Be free from discrimination.

4. What is the role of the Rehabilitation Council of India?

The Rehabilitation Council of India is a body established by the National Trust Act to oversee and coordinate rehabilitation services for persons with disabilities. It is responsible for setting standards for rehabilitation services, promoting research and development in the field, and accrediting rehabilitation institutions.

5. How does the National Trust Act support voluntary organizations working for the welfare of persons with disabilities?

Conclusion

The National Trust Act is a comprehensive piece of legislation that provides a legal framework for the welfare of persons with disabilities in India. By understanding the key provisions of the Act, families can ensure that their loved ones with disabilities have access to the necessary support and services they need to live fulfilling lives.