TL-VP

VP calls for efforts to empower differently-abled people Hyderabad, Jan 19 (PTI): Vice President M Venkaiah

Naidu Saturday said eliminating discriminatory tendencies should be the first step in empowering differently-abled

people. Speaking at a cultural programme organised by Bhagwan

Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS) here, Naidu said nobody has any right to ill-treat or discriminate against

anybody, particularly persons with disabilities. "It should be the collective responsibility of the

society, people and institutions to support Divyangjan and empower them to lead a dignified life," the vice-president

said according to an official release. Although the Union government and various state

governments have been systematically addressing grievances faced by differently-abled people, there is a need to create

greater awareness among all sections of society on the need to prevent any form of discrimination and provide necessary

support to enable them lead a life of dignity and respect, he said.

"As a society, we need to ensure that no stigma is attached to disability and learn to recognise the valuable

human assets we have in people with special needs. It is the duty of the fortunate to take care of the less fortune. In my

opinion it is the basic duty of human being to be sensitive to the needs of the fellow human being," Naidu observed.

The Vice President further said it is also important to enhance the mobility of persons with disabilities and

create barrier-free environment wherever needed, particularly in public places.

"I would also like the private sector to collaborate with the government in developing barrier-free environment and

earmark a part of their CSR funds for this activity--be it in the physical infrastructure, transportation sector or the ICT

ecosystem," Naidu added. Apart from promoting sports among persons with

disabilities, they also need to be encouraged to take part in various cultural and social activities, he said.

"It is heartening that the government has also launched a National Action Plan for Skill Development to

impart skill training to 25 lakh people with disabilities by 2022, to enhance their employability. I would also urge the

private sector to create adequate employment opportunities for persons with disabilities," Naidu said.

As a humanitarian organisation, Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti, a Jaipur-based non-profit

organisation knows no frontiers, he said adding it has been rendering services for the welfare of persons with

disabilities all over the world. "I am told it has so far rehabilitated over 1.55

million persons with disabilities by providing artificial limbs, calipers and other aids and appliances free of charge,"

he added. The Vice President also watched a dance recital by

famed danseuse and actress Sudha Chandran.