SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir government is planning to increase the monthly disability pension from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000, a move aimed at alleviating the financial challenges faced by disabled individuals and their families.
Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education, Sakeena Itoo, reiterated the government’s commitment to empowering persons with disabilities (PwDs) by providing them with the necessary resources to lead independent and dignified lives. Speaking at an event in Jammu, where aids such as artificial limbs, wheelchairs, and hearing devices were distributed, the Minister highlighted a comprehensive plan to uplift the specially abled community.
The event, organised by Shree Atam Vallabh Jain Clinic Jammu and sponsored by Rural Electrification Corporation in collaboration with Bhagwan Mahavir Viklang Sahayta Samiti Kota, marked a significant step in supporting the disabled community. Hundreds of beneficiaries received essential equipment, including 104 artificial limbs, 73 callipers, 22 artificial hands, 20 wheelchairs, and 19 tricycles, alongside 123 hearing aids.
Addressing the gathering at Brahman Sabha Parade, Sakeena Itoo emphasised the government’s ongoing efforts to improve the lives of PwDs. “We are resolute in our mission to provide all possible support to the specially abled community so they can live a life of dignity and independence,” she said. She reaffirmed the administration’s plans to increase the monthly disability pension from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000, a move aimed at alleviating the financial challenges faced by disabled individuals and their families.
The Minister stressed the importance of inclusive growth, calling for a focused approach to ensure accessibility and opportunities for marginalised communities. She commended the efforts of the NGOs involved in the event and encouraged them to continue organising awareness campaigns to educate people about the rights and facilities available to persons with disabilities.
“The Omar-led government is committed to addressing the concerns of every section of society, with a special focus on the disabled community. Increasing accessibility and support for them remains a top priority,” she remarked, adding that the government will continue to strengthen welfare measures and ensure better quality of life for the disabled population.
During the event, Itoo interacted with several beneficiaries, offering assurances of sustained government assistance. She highlighted the collaborative role of NGOs and the government in providing timely aid to those in need, and she urged greater public participation in initiatives aimed at uplifting the disabled community.
Pradeep Jain, General Secretary of Shree Atam Vallabh Jain Clinic Jammu, shared details of the three-day camp, revealing that 429 individuals were screened, with hundreds benefitting from the distribution of assistive devices. He expressed gratitude for the government’s support and pledged to continue similar efforts in the future.
The event underscored the government’s focus on creating a more inclusive society, ensuring that the rights and needs of persons with disabilities remain central to developmental initiatives.
