Bangalore: To mark World Disability Day on December 3, the State Government has notified that at least three per cent of the development budget should be allotted for the welfare of people with disabilities.

The notification has been issued under Sections 33 and 43 of the Persons with Disabilities Act [Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation], 1995. The State Government issued the notification on November 9.

In a bid to prevent misuse of the funds allocated, several non-governmental organisations, including Community Based Rehabilitation (CBR), have now urged the Government to issue a blueprint.

Speaking to presspersons here on Friday, Indumahati Rao, regional co-ordinator, CBR, said: "Finally we got some response from the Government. Our country has the highest number of people with disabilities; they have the right to be treated as equals."

She urged the State Government to create more employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

"They do not need any form of aid or wheelchairs, they only need jobs. Providing employment is like giving them a new life and a reason to live," she said.

NGOs now feel that the Government should aim at promoting an understanding of disability issues and mobilise support for the dignity, rights and well being of people with disabilities.

"We welcome this notification. But since the Act comes under the State list, it is the Government's responsibility to initiate action in this regard. We want the Government to start all schemes or plans for the disabled at the grassroots level. No one should be left unattended," she said.

To express the solidarity with the disabled population in our country, Infosys and several city-based non-governmental organisations have organised a march around Vidhana Soudha on Sunday. Several disabled persons would also participate in the march, she added.

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