Education is key to empowerment of Persons with Disabilities: Venkaiah Naidu

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu has said the government is committed to building an inclusive society for the betterment of Divyangjan. He called upon all stakeholders to contribute to empowering this vulnerable section of the society.

Mr Naidu was speaking after conferring National Awards to outstanding persons with disabilities and organizations working towards their empowerment on the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities in New Delhi today.

He said education is the key to empowerment of every person, including Persons with Disabilities.

There should be a special focus on inclusive schools so that each differently-abled child gets a good quality education.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today reaffirmed the government's commitment to keep working towards an inclusive, accessible and equitable future for Divyangs.

In a tweet on the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Mr Modi said their fortitude and accomplishments in various fields inspire everybody.

Social Justice



and Empowerment Minister Thaawarchand Gehlot said the government has taken several initiatives for the empowerment of Divyangjan in the last five and a half years, including an increase in reservation in government jobs from 3 per cent to 4 per cent and in higher education from 4 per cent to 5 per cent.

He said special Universal Identity Cards for Divyangjan are being made, which will help them avail facilities meant for them.

A total of 65 awards in 14 various categories were presented to Divyangjans. The national awards have been instituted with the objective of focusing public attention on issues concerning Divyangjan. The aim is also to promote their participation in mainstream society.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities is observed on the 3rd of December every year to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society.

The theme this year is - Promoting the Participation of Persons with Disabilities and their leadership: Taking Action on the 2030 Development Agenda.