TFP Bureau, Raipur, July 23, 2025: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai has set a clear mandate for the complete skill empowerment of Divyangjans (persons with disabilities), asserting that inclusive development is crucial to achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047. Chairing a high-level review of the Social Welfare Department at Mahanadi Bhavan, the CM directed officials to immediately resolve all pending pension cases of the elderly and Divyang beneficiaries, and to implement an action plan for their skill training without delay.
“Our vision of a developed India cannot be fulfilled unless every section of society, especially our Divyang brothers and sisters, is empowered with skills and self-reliance,” said CM Sai. He emphasized that the welfare of the elderly, persons with disabilities, and destitute individuals must be treated as a top priority. “Negligence in this area will not be tolerated,” he warned.
The Chief Minister instructed officials to strengthen old-age homes, rehabilitation centers, and institutions receiving grant-in-aid for disabled children. He also called for the implementation of customized skill training under the Chief Minister Skill Development Scheme based on the aptitude and interests of Divyangjans, enabling them to pursue self-employment and contribute meaningfully to society.
Social Welfare Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade added that the department must intensify efforts to rehabilitate homeless and nomadic persons, especially women, children, and Divyangs found in public places. She also stressed the need for physical verification of all pension cases and greater awareness of the department’s helpline number for improved access to support.
CM Sai also called for immediate action to register members of the transgender community and ensure their inclusion in welfare schemes such as Ayushman Bharat, ration cards, and others. He directed that special camps be held for Divyangjans for UDID (Unique Disability ID) registration and disability certification from medical boards.
He emphasized the urgent distribution of prosthetic limbs, crutches, tricycles, hearing aids, and other assistive devices to those in need. “No deserving person should be left without support—this is our government’s firm commitment,” the Chief Minister declared.
Officials shared that in the past year, 137 special health camps for Divyangjans were held across the state, screening 7,669 individuals. Out of these, 6,671 received prosthetic and assistive devices—greatly enhancing their mobility and independence.
The review also included progress under flagship schemes like the Prosthetic & Assistive Devices Distribution Scheme, Samarthya Development Program, Divyang Marriage Incentive Scheme, and the National Rehabilitation Program for Persons with Disabilities.
The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary to the CM Shri Subodh Kumar Singh, Secretaries Shri P. Dayanand and Shri Rahul Bhagat, Social Welfare Secretary Shri Bhuvnesh Yadav, Director Smt. Roktima Yadav, and other senior officials.
