CHENNAI: Steps are being taken to create a barrier-free environment for persons with disabilities, State Commissioner for the Disabled V.K. Jayakodi said here on Saturday.
Speaking at a workshop organised by the National Institute of the Visually Handicapped (NIVH), in collaboration with the Madras School of Social Work (MSSW), he said: “Development will be made in the areas of railways, transport and basic amenities in the years to come. An increase in mobility will help their efficiency and employability.”
The government was doing its part to create a more conducive environment. However, even after 10 years since the Persons with Disabilities Act (1995) came into effect, awareness was low, he said. “There are about 16 lakh disabled persons in Tamil Nadu. About 70 per cent are from rural areas. Less than 15 per cent have a proper education beyond secondary level. So, the government is focussing on special schools.” he said.
NIVH regional director A.K. Mittal said that disabled persons were second to none and given the right opportunity and technological assistance, they could achieve their goals.
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