Centre to distribute UICs to differently abled

Visakhapatnam: Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Krishan Pal Gurjar announced that the Universal Identity Cards (UIC) meant for differently abled would be distributed soon. The works of the distribution of UICs across the country would be completed at the earliest, he added.

Camp of Rastriya Vayosri Yojana, a welfare scheme for the empowerment of senior citizens. was held here on Saturday. Minister Gurjar attended the camp and distributed Rs 43 lakh worth utilities to 877 beneficiaries. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that the NDA government is implementing welfare schemes to the differently abled. The government had already increased the percentage of reservation in education and employment for them, he said.

Earlier, differently abled were supposed to get eight utilities only. However, Prime Minsiter Narendra Modi increased number to 21. Responding to Anakapalle MP M Srinivasa Rao’s appeal, the Minister announced that another camp would be conducted in Visakhapatnam district.

Visakhapatnam MP K Haribabu said that with help of the Central assistance Rs 3.5 crore worth utilities were distributed in three districts so far. A lift at a cost of Rs 73 lakh was being constructed at the Collectorate here for the benefit of the differently abled people, he said. The government already sanctioned Rs 50 crore to construct an exclusive stadium for the differently abled, he added.