New Delhi, Jan 11 (Mayank Nigam) Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale said that the Central Government was committed to empowering the disabled. Speaking at the Artificial Limb Fitment camp for empowerment of persons with disabilities (Divyangjan) organized by Jaipur Foot USA’s parent organization Bhagwan Mahavir Kikalanga Sahayata Samiti and Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) at Hitech City area, here on Wednesday, the Minister said that many people who are depressed due to disability, but disability is not a barrier to determination and courage is the real tool for success.
Ramdas said, according to the 2011 census, there were 2.68 crore disabled people in the country, the central government was taking many decisions for the welfare of the disabled. Economic and social development of the disabled, the central government has provided assistance to about 30 lakh disabled people in the last 8 years, he said and added that the central government was committed to empowering them. “We all have a social responsibility to provide all kinds of support to the disabled”, the minister said this camp was being organized as a part of ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ on the occasion of 75 years of India’s independence. We all know that Jaipur foot is locally made and has given life to many people. Similarly, the Minister said that we are moving towards Atma Nirbhar India in all fields and we need everyone’s help and cooperation to realize that dream. On this occasion, the Minister congratulated Jaipur Foot USA Chairman Prem Bhandari and FIA for their selfless service to the society.