In a landmark move toward social inclusion, the Kozhikode district administration has launched ‘Sahamithra’, an ambitious project designed to rewrite the rules of accessibility. Far from a standard welfare program, Sahamithra is a comprehensive rights-based mission aimed at making Kozhikode the first district in Kerala to be truly disability-friendly.
A Historic Achievement: 100% UDID Registration
Kozhikode has officially become the first district in Kerala to achieve 100% UDID (Unique Disability ID) registration. The UDID card is more than just an ID; it is a “golden ticket” that ensures persons with disabilities (PwDs) can access government services, healthcare, and benefits under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act without administrative hurdles.
Kerala’s Largest Accessibility Audit
One of the most impressive pillars of Sahamithra is the massive barrier-free building audit.
- The Scale: Over 4,000 public buildings are slated for evaluation.
- The Power of Youth: Around 2,000 student volunteers from 78 colleges (via NSS and Campus COK) are leading the charge.
- The Goal: To identify physical barriers in public spaces and implement data-driven solutions to ensure every office, hospital, and school is accessible to everyone.
The ‘Sahamithra’ Mobile App: Support at Your Fingertips
The project recognizes that care starts at home. A dedicated mobile app is being launched to support caregivers and parents of children with disabilities. The app will allow users to:
- Track a child’s progress through various therapies.
- Interact directly with medical and rehabilitation experts.
- Access guidance on specialized care and government schemes.
Direct Action through Disability Camps
Rather than making citizens come to them, the administration is going to the people. By conducting dozens of data entry and medical board camps, the district has streamlined the process for obtaining certifications and essential documents. These camps have become a lifeline for families who previously struggled with the bureaucracy of social security.
A Model for the Nation
Led by District Collector Snehil Kumar Singh, Sahamithra integrates existing successful programs like the Cradle app, Enabling Kozhikode, and accessible BUDS schools into one unified ecosystem. By combining youth volunteerism, technical support, and infrastructure reform, Kozhikode is setting a blueprint for the rest of India. The message is clear: true progress isn’t just about economic growth it’s about ensuring that no citizen is left behind because of a physical or digital barrier.
Read more at: https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2026/01/13/sahamithra-disability-friendly-kozhikode.html