Bhavnagar/Botad, March 1 (NationPress) A comprehensive seven-phase distribution initiative in Bhavnagar and Botad districts reached its conclusion on Sunday, resulting in the distribution of 4,858 assistive devices valued at Rs 3.88 crore to 2,636 individuals with disabilities, according to officials.

The final distribution camp took place in Talaja, presided over by Union Minister of State Nimuben Bambhaniya.

This event was organized at the Industrial Training Institute (ITI), Talaja, as part of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and the Central government’s Assistance to Disabled Persons (ADIP) scheme.

While speaking to the beneficiaries, Bambhaniya highlighted that a total of 19 different types of assistive devices were made available during this distribution drive. “Approximately 2,636 beneficiaries have received assistive devices worth nearly Rs 3.88 crore. These devices are intended to enhance their quality of life,” she remarked.

She emphasized the terminology adopted by the government, stating, “Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the term ‘Divyangjan’ has been embraced to show respect to individuals with disabilities. This support will not only facilitate their daily tasks but also allow them to live with dignity.”

Bambhaniya mentioned that nearly 18,000 such camps have been conducted nationwide over the past 11 years, significantly transforming the lives of many.

She also noted that dedicated budgetary allocations have been made for individuals with disabilities, and through the Divyang Skill Scheme, training and self-employment opportunities will be offered.

“The reservation for persons with disabilities in government positions has been increased from 3 percent to 4 percent,” she added.

According to official records, 478 devices were allocated to 261 beneficiaries in Botad on January 5 at a value of Rs 39.74 lakh; 362 devices to 198 beneficiaries in Sihor on January 6 valued at Rs 28.48 lakh; 737 devices to 366 beneficiaries in Palitana on January 7 worth Rs 62.89 lakh; and 1,769 devices to 1,017 beneficiaries in Bhavnagar city on January 16 costing Rs 1.24 crore.

In addition, 629 devices were given to 315 beneficiaries in Gadhada on February 27 at a cost of Rs 49.62 lakh; 177 devices to 90 beneficiaries in Umrala on February 28 costing Rs 14.04 lakh; and 706 devices to 389 beneficiaries in Talaja on March 1 at a total expense of Rs 68.78 lakh.

In the Talaja and Mahuva regions, 389 identified beneficiaries received 706 assistive devices valued at Rs 64.41 lakh.

The assistive devices distributed during the Talaja event included 62 motorized tricycles, 167 tricycles, 40 wheelchairs, 88 crutches, 92 walking sticks, 29 accessible canes, 21 rollators, 53 TLM kits, 46 BTE digital hearing aids, 13 CP chairs, 22 walkers, 3 Braille kits, 12 smartphones, 2 ADL kits, and 56 artificial limbs produced by ALIMCO.

Also present were Talaja MLA Gautam Chauhan, Mahuva MLA Shiva Gohil, Bhavnagar Collector Dr. Manish Kumar Bansal, and other senior officials.