Punjab govt pledges Rs. 5 lakh grant for NGO supporting differently-abled

“The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to providing all possible support to NGOs working for the welfare of the underprivileged and differently-abled in the state.”

This was stated by Punjab Minister for Social Justice, Empowerment, Minorities, Social Security, and Women and Child Development, Dr. Baljit Kaur, while addressing the 58th Foundation Day function of the Society for Welfare of Handicapped at the Deaf and Blind School in Saifdipur village today.

Dr. Baljit Kaur lauded the dedicated efforts of the Society in empowering children who are unable to speak, hear, or see and helping them integrate into the mainstream of society.

She announced a financial grant of Rs. 5 lakh for the development of school infrastructure, emphasizing the government’s support for such meaningful initiatives.

“The government is taking along every section of society to build a Rangla Punjab,” she said, adding that while there may be some gaps, organizations like these fill them with selfless service and dedication.

Dr. Baljit Kaur also shared her personal experiences of treating eye ailments in Muktsar and called upon the public to pledge to donate their eyes.

Drawing inspiration from Helen Keller, she praised the teachers of the Deaf and Blind School and said, “These children are not disabled-they are gifted, and they are already influencing society with their talent.”

The event featured captivating performances by students of Patiala School for the Deaf, School for the Blind, and Patiala School for the Deaf-Blind.

Cabinet Minister commended the students and remarked that they are not lacking in any ability but are masters of unique art forms, and nothing can stop them from achieving success.

Colonel Karminder Singh, Secretary of the Society, informed that over 450 differently-abled students from 13 states, including Punjab, are studying in the school, which has been providing free education for the past 58 years. “Empowering these children is both a challenge and a mission,” he said.

The event was attended by ADC (G) Isha Singal, Pawan Goyal, Brigadier R.S. Mann, Jagjit Sarin, Roop Kamboj, S.K. Kochhar, Baba Gurnam Singh, Shiv Dutt (UK), Deaf School Principal Renu Singla, Blind School Principal Kavita, and a large gathering of students, teachers, parents, and other personalities.