UP Deputy CM assures priority resolution of concerns of persons with disabilities; promises hassle-free disability certificates, improved social security and equal opportunities
Prayagraj/Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya said providing children with disabilities a platform to showcase their talent and build self-confidence was a commendable initiative. He emphasised that persons with disabilities were not a burden on society but a collective social responsibility deserving dignity, support and equal opportunities.
Maurya was speaking as the chief guest at the Divyang Samagam and Sanskriti Mahotsav organised at the North Central Zone Cultural Centre in Prayagraj. Appreciating the performances of children, he praised Saksham and its teachers for their efforts to nurture talent, promote education and strengthen the confidence of children with disabilities.
He urged all sections of society to actively participate in such initiatives and contribute according to their capabilities.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative to replace the term ‘Viklang’ with ‘Divyang’, Maurya said the change reflected an effort to recognise the dignity, abilities and potential of persons with disabilities. He added that they needed opportunities to demonstrate their capabilities and progress in life.
Praising the cultural performances, the Deputy Chief Minister said the children displayed remarkable confidence and excellence on stage. He also appreciated their teachers for using creative methods, including acting, to educate and prepare them for performances.
Government to address concerns on priority
Maurya said persons with disabilities continued to face several practical difficulties in accessing essential services and government facilities. He asked Saksham and other organisations working for their welfare to submit these concerns in writing so that the government could ensure their timely resolution.
He assured that necessary instructions would be issued to the concerned authorities and negligence in addressing their grievances would not be tolerated.
Highlighting difficulties in obtaining disability certificates, he said the government would take steps to ensure that persons visiting the Chief Medical Officer’s office received respectful and hassle-free services without unnecessary delays or repeated visits.
Pension increased from ₹300 to ₹1,500 per month
The Deputy Chief Minister highlighted the government’s social security measures, stating that the monthly disability pension had been increased from ₹300 to ₹1,500.
He said the government was also committed to providing housing to economically weaker families with persons with disabilities through the Chief Minister’s Housing Scheme, enabling them to lead lives with dignity and security.
Referring to marriage assistance, Maurya said eligible couples under the Chief Minister’s Mass Marriage Scheme receive financial assistance of ₹1,01,000. He added that efforts would be made to ensure similar financial assistance for marriages involving persons with disabilities.
He stressed that there should be no discrepancies or obstacles in extending the benefits of government welfare schemes to eligible beneficiaries.
Focus on mobility and independent living
Maurya underlined the importance of motorised tricycles and other assistive devices in improving mobility and independence among persons with disabilities. He also referred to efforts being made at his own level to provide assistive equipment to those in need.
“Persons with disabilities need respect, support and equal opportunities, not sympathy,” he said, emphasising that their self-respect and independence were important strengths of society.
Concluding his address, Maurya thanked the participating organisations, teachers, social workers and supporters for their contribution to the welfare of persons with disabilities. He said the government and society must work together to address their challenges and assured that the state government would remain sensitive and committed to their welfare.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=RtToJsBhYBatUrym&v=mOuYNSdhjHA&feature=youtu.be
