A National Workshop on Skill Development for Persons with Disabilities was organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment here today. The day long workshop was organized with a view to provide a platform to all stakeholders ranging from training partners to the policy makers as well as employers. Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment inaugurated the workshop and Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship was the Guest of Honour.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr Pradhan said, disability is only a perception. He said, the problem is not a person’s disability, the problem is society’s views of their abilities.
The Minister said, if the nation has to achieve a just, equitable and better society people must weave one in which each diverse human being finds a fitting place.
He stressed for more coordination between the Skills Ministry and Social Justice and Empowerment Ministry.
Mr Pradhan said, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has special empathy towards the betterment of Divyangjans and his Government is committed for their inclusion in the mainstream. He said, with the addition of new categories in identifying people with special abilities more people are now covered under benefits extended to them. The Minister said, mere disbursement of support equipment to the differently-abled will not lead to their upliftment.
He informed that the Government aims to provide them with a respectful place in the society. He said, all sections of society must come together and support the mission.
In his address, Mr Gehlot said, Government is committed for welfare of Divyangjans and the Ministry has taken many path-breaking initiatives for them. He informed that through Accessible India Campaign Centre is providing funds to State Governments to make public buildings, transport, road and websites accessible.
Smt. Shakuntala D. Gamlin, Secretary, DEPwD, senior officers of DEPwD, Representatives from Corporate Sectors (both in Private and Public), State Governments and Empanelled Training Centres of DEPwD participated in the workshop.
