Bhubaneswar: The state government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the international organisation called Sightsavers for socio-economic development of disabled persons and their inclusive eye health services.

Sightsavers has been working in India since 1966 to eliminate avoidable blindness and to ensure people who are irreversibly blind are supported adequately to lead lives of independence and dignity. It now partners with more than 100 organisations in 17 states.

The Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) department inked the MoU with Sightsavers on Friday to create livelihood and job opportunities for persons with disabilities in presence of departmental minister Prafulla Samal.

The agreement aims to promote socio-economic development of the disabled and inclusive eye health services for the vulnerable population in 12 districts.

More than 3 lakh youths with disabilities in these districts will be benefit from the partnership.