Hyderabad: Union minister Ramdas Athawale said that India had 2.68 crore disabled people according to the 2011 Census, and said that the Centre was working through various special schemes for their welfare.He inaugurated the ‘Braille for All’ training and learning centre at Braille Park and released a scientific book for disabled individuals. The minister encouraged disabled individuals to apply for grants through the ministry’s online portal.The event marked the start of a month-long series of programme to mark World Disabled Day, organised by the Friendly Environment for the Disabled (FED) at Louis Braille Park in Malakpet.The programme, conducted by FED, focused on addressing the challenges faced by Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). A special representation was made to the minister, proposing the organization of a Purple Festival, an international celebration of Disabled Day, in 2025.Gangaram, chairman of FED, highlighted the need to retain the teacher training centre for the visually impaired at East Marredpally and merge it with National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (NIEPID). He emphasised the importance of statewide advocacy, awareness, and sensitization programmes, pointing out the lack of understanding and implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities(RPWD) Act 2016, which was enacted by the central government.He outlined key challenges faced by the disabled community, including errors in Sadarem certificates, issues with pensions, and job disparities in placements and promotions.
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