Government Signs 72 MoUs to Enhance Empowerment for Persons with Disabilities, Unveils ₹100 Crore Projects This Year
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New Delhi, Dec 30 (NationPress) The government finalized 72 MoUs with startups and organizations this year across various disability sectors, showcasing a commitment to collaboration and innovation, it was revealed on Monday.
The year 2024 marked a unified effort by the Central government and various stakeholders to establish a more inclusive and equitable society for persons with disabilities.
Projects valued at over ₹100 crore were launched to improve rehabilitation facilities and encourage inclusivity. The newly constructed Service Block of the National Institute of Mental Health and Rehabilitation (NIMHR) was also inaugurated this year, according to the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
The initiatives introduced this year create a solid foundation for ongoing progress in empowering and integrating persons with disabilities (Divyangjan) in India for years ahead.
“The transformative journey of ‘Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan’ celebrates nine years of promoting accessibility and inclusivity in India. Initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this groundbreaking initiative has played a crucial role in empowering Divyangjan, allowing them to live lives of dignity, equality, and opportunity,” stated the ministry.
A centrally managed, user-friendly short code helpline number, 14456, was introduced, simplifying the process of obtaining assistance. This initiative enhances support systems and guarantees effective service delivery.
The collaboration with the National Association for the Blind aimed to make around 10,000 pages of documents, including government schemes and legal benefits, accessible to individuals with visual impairments. To boost accessibility, the ISL dictionary is now available in 10 regional languages, ensuring wider reach and comprehension across India's diverse linguistic spectrum, the ministry informed.
Approximately 2,500 new terms were incorporated into the Indian Sign Language (ISL).
The new vocabulary encompasses a broad array of topics, including mathematics, science, higher education, and fields like sports and infrastructure. The ISL dictionary is now accessible in 10 regional languages.
This year, the government also executed multiple Training of Trainers (ToT) programs focused on employability skills for PwDs, ensuring efficient training delivery nationwide.
About 35 new district disability rehabilitation centres (DDRC) were established across the country, broadening access to essential rehabilitation services.
“A historic celebration of diversity and unity took place at Rashtrapati Bhawan, gathering over 10,000 Divyangjan and their escorts. Significant launches at the event included the ‘India Neurodiversity Platform’ and a handbook on disability-sensitive language,” the ministry added.
