Cabinet approves fixed term for chairperson and members of National Trust

The Union Cabinet has decided to fix three-year term of chairperson and the members of the board of the National Trust, an autonomous body under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment,
In this regard, it has approved proposal to amend National Trust for Welfare of Person with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities Act (NTA), 1999.

Key Facts

At present, Section 4 (1) of NTA, 1999 provides that chairperson or member of board of National Trust will continue in office beyond prescribed term of 3 years until his successor is appointed by government. In case of resignation of chairperson, section 5(1) of act provides for him to continue in office until his successor is appointed by government.
The wording of above provisions of NT Act in its present form has resulted in continuation of chairman for indefinite period as no suitable successor could be found eligible for appointment. The proposed amendments to National Trust Act will avoid such situation and thus eliminate any chance of prolonged continuation in the same post by any incumbent.

National Trust

It is a statutory body under Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. Its mandate is to discharge two basic duties – legal and welfare.
It fundamental purpose, is to create enabling environment, i.e. provide opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (PwD) through comprehensive support systems which will lead towards development of an inclusive society.

Objectives of National Trust

• Enable and empower PWD to live as independently and fully as possible within and close to their community as possible.
• Facilitate realisation of equal opportunities, protection of rights and full participation of persons with disability.
• Extend support to its registered organisations to provide need based services.
• Evolve procedures for appointments of guardians and trustees for persons with disabilities.

Month: Current Affairs - January, 2018