Differently abled people would soon be able to lead a better life using artificial limbs and hearing aids provided by the state government’s Samvardhan Kendra initiative in 10 districts. The social welfare department would start operations at these centres within six months.

According to the scheme, each centre will be set up at a cost of around Rs 20-22 lakh.

Apart from providing artificial limbs, hearing aids and disability certificates, the units would also provide vocational training, loans and counselling to these special people.

“We will create a special unit at the Samvardhan Kendras where artificial limbs and hearing aids would be manufactured and fitted on these special people. Differently abled persons can also avail different kinds of treatment, including occupational and physical therapies. Disability certificates, loans and scholarship will also be provided. Vocational training would be imparted which would include making incense sticks, candles, soft toys, bamboo handicraft and others. The training would help these people eke out a living. All these facilities would be provided free,” said social welfare minister Parveen Amanullah.

According to experts, there are around 18 lakh differently abled people in the state.

“We are yet to decide the districts where the Samvardhan Kendras would be started. We have just got the cabinet approval for this scheme. We would work on its detailed project report.” said Amanullah.

Divulging further details about the centres, the minister said: “Machines worth Rs 8 lakh will be installed at each unit, which would be used in providing therapies and treatment. We will provide Rs 10,000 to each centre for vocational training. We will give Rs 11,36,400 annually to each unit for the benefit of the differently abled. Besides, each kendra will get Rs 60,000 to be utilised as rent.”

Amanullah said: “At present, we are providing scholarships to differently abled students pursuing vocational training at Industrial Training Institute. We have decided to provide rent for students who are pursuing training at the institute outside their home district as well. We would also start schools for mentally challenged kids at two new places.”