Revamped Sugamya Bharat App Enhances Accessibility for Disabled and Elderly
Introduction to the Sugamya Bharat App
New Delhi, June 27: The Sugamya Bharat App (SBA), a key initiative by the Indian government aimed at improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities and senior citizens, has undergone a significant upgrade to enhance user experience, as announced by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment on Friday.
New Features and Improvements
The updated version includes a more user-friendly interface and features an AI-powered chatbot designed to provide real-time assistance to users.
Additionally, the app will display circulars and notifications regarding new accessibility initiatives and the integration of various government schemes, along with other essential resources for people with disabilities.
User Engagement and Statistics
As of June 25, the app has registered 14,358 users and has been downloaded 83,791 times, with 82,291 downloads on Android and 1,500 on iOS platforms, according to the ministry.
Initially launched in 2021 by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), the app is a vital tool for citizens to report accessibility challenges in public infrastructure, transportation, and ICT systems.
Reporting Accessibility Issues
Users can upload geo-tagged images of locations facing accessibility issues, allowing authorities to respond swiftly to these concerns.
Since its launch, the app has received 2,705 complaints, with 1,897 successfully resolved, showcasing the government's dedication to fostering an inclusive environment.
Encouraging Public Participation
The DEPwD continues to urge the public to actively report accessibility issues, supporting the government's vision of a barrier-free India.
With the integration of the AI chatbot, the app has become even more user-friendly, providing immediate information on government initiatives and schemes.
The app is accessible for download on both the Google Play Store for Android devices and the Apple App Store for iOS users.