Chennai: DMK Govt Boosts Rights and Opportunities for Differently Abled

Chennai, Sep 19 (PTI) The DMK government, under the leadership of Chief Minister M K Stalin, has made significant strides in protecting and promoting the rights of differently abled individuals in Tamil Nadu. Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin highlighted these efforts on Friday, emphasizing the government's commitment to enhancing opportunities in education, employment, and welfare for this resilient community.

Udhayanidhi Stalin noted that differently abled individuals are remarkable examples of self-confidence and perseverance. As part of its initiatives, the government provides educational assistance ranging from Rs 2,000 to Rs 1 lakh, supporting their school education and higher studies. Special emphasis is also placed on their participation in sports.

In a notable achievement, up to Rs 5 crore has been allocated to around 200 differently abled students to enable their participation in international sports events through the Tamil Nadu Champions Foundation. Additionally, the state has distributed Rs 25 crore as prize money to 200 athletes who have won medals at both national and international levels, Udhayanidhi mentioned.

Employment remains a priority, with the Chief Minister ensuring job opportunities for differently abled athletes. Last year, the government successfully employed five differently abled athletes. This year, the aim is to provide government jobs to 20 athletes from this community through the sports department, and Udhayanidhi expressed confidence in achieving this target.

Further demonstrating its commitment, the government has distributed assistive devices, including artificial limbs and battery-powered four-wheelers to 300 differently abled individuals. This initiative was undertaken in partnership with Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited’s CSR program. At the event, a modern sewage-powered vehicle worth Rs 1.50 crore was also flagged off.

Udhayanidhi underscored the state's dedication to improving conditions for the differently abled, highlighting recent developments like the introduction of 840 low-floor buses for their ease and comfort. He proudly stated, “Our Dravidian model government continues to uphold the rights of differently abled people,” mentioning the DMK's newly established wing dedicated to their cause. “The differently abled community stands as a testament to self-confidence and perseverance,” he praised.