Chief Minister Takes Decisions for Disabled Welfare

Mumbai : Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has announced the distribution of e-rickshaws to disabled individuals in the state to promote employment and self-employment. He also directed that all municipal corporations should establish rehabilitation centers offering comprehensive facilities such as training, counseling, and medical assistance for disabled individuals under one roof. Additionally, the loan amount for skill development training schemes for the disabled will be increased to Rs 2.5 lakh.

The directives were given during a meeting of the Divyang Kalyan Corporation held at Sahyadri Guest House, attended by Industries Minister Uday Samant, Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Vikas Kharge, Secretary of the Disability Welfare Department Sumant Bhange, and Managing Director of the Corporation Abhay Kargutkar. The Chief Minister emphasized the need for a collaborative effort with the Skill Development Department to provide skill training for employment and self-employment opportunities for disabled individuals.

The Chief Minister also instructed the creation of rehabilitation centers in every municipal corporation to provide accommodation, training, counseling, and medical assistance under one roof. He urged the department and corporation to maximize the benefits of Central Government schemes for the disabled in the state. To expedite the loan disbursement process, the use of technology such as mobile apps and helplines was recommended, along with raising awareness about the higher education loan scheme for the disabled.

Last year, 797 battery-powered rickshaws were approved for self-employment by the corporation, with 600 already allocated. In today’s meeting, approval was given for the purchase of an additional 667 rickshaws this year.