1. Introduction
The National Trust for the Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation, and Multiple Disabilities Act, 1999, commonly known as the National Trust Act, 1999, was enacted by the Government of India to provide care, protection, and inclusion for individuals with specific disabilities.
It focuses on promoting independent living, legal guardianship, and community-based support systems for persons with autism, cerebral palsy, mental retardation (now referred to as intellectual disability), and multiple disabilities.
The Act came into force on 30 December 1999 under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
2. Objectives of the National Trust Act, 1999
The main objectives are:
Empowerment – Enable persons with specified disabilities to live independently with dignity.
Legal Guardianship – Provide legal guardians for persons who require care and protection.
Community Support – Develop and strengthen community-based programs for rehabilitation.
Protection of Rights – Safeguard property and other rights of persons with disabilities.
Awareness and Advocacy – Create awareness about disability rights and inclusion.
3. Disabilities Covered under the Act
The Act specifically addresses the needs of persons with:
Autism
Cerebral Palsy
Mental Retardation (Intellectual Disability)
Multiple Disabilities
4. Key Provisions of the National Trust Act, 1999
The Act consists of five chapters detailing the structure, functions, and programs of the National Trust.
4.1 Establishment of the National Trust
A statutory body under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
Head office in New Delhi with regional outreach through registered organizations.
4.2 Functions of the National Trust
Support for Independent Living – Develop housing and employment opportunities.
Guardianship – Appoint and monitor legal guardians for persons with severe disabilities.
Capacity Building – Train professionals and caregivers for better rehabilitation services.
Research and Development – Promote studies for improved assistive technologies and inclusion strategies.
4.3 Legal Guardianship
Local Level Committees (LLCs) are constituted to appoint guardians.
Guardians are responsible for the care, maintenance, and property management of the person with disability.
4.4 Registration of NGOs
Voluntary organizations working in disability welfare can register with the National Trust to receive grants and support.
5. National Trust Programs and Schemes
The National Trust runs several flagship programs:
Gharaunda – Group housing scheme for lifelong shelter and care.
Samarth – Respite and residential care for persons with severe disabilities.
Niramaya – Affordable health insurance for persons with disabilities.
Sahyogi – Training caregivers to support families and institutions.
Gyan Prabha – Educational support for students with disabilities.
Prerna – Marketing assistance for products made by persons with disabilities.
Vikaas – Day-care services for skill development and social integration.
6. Significance of the National Trust Act, 1999
This Act is important because it:
Focuses on lifelong care and protection for persons with severe disabilities.
Encourages community participation and inclusion.
Provides legal guardianship for those who cannot make decisions independently.
Offers comprehensive welfare schemes, from housing to employment support.
7. Challenges in Implementation
Despite its positive impact, the Act faces challenges such as:
Limited awareness among families about guardianship provisions.
Shortage of trained caregivers in rural areas.
Inadequate funding for NGOs to sustain programs.
Need for modernization of rehabilitation facilities.
8. Conclusion
The National Trust Act, 1999 is a vital legislation that upholds the dignity and rights of persons with autism, cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, and multiple disabilities. It ensures lifelong care, guardianship, and empowerment, enabling them to live as independently as possible within the community.
By combining legal safeguards with community-based programs, the Act has become a cornerstone of India’s disability welfare system, contributing significantly towards an inclusive and equitable society.
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