New Delhi, September 17: More than 58,000 Divyangjan and senior citizens across India received free assistive devices worth around Rs 68 crore as part of a nationwide initiative to promote inclusion, independence and dignity.
The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, through ALIMCO, organised Samajik Adhikarita Camps simultaneously at 76 locations across 21 States on Thursday. The devices were provided according to the assessed needs of individual beneficiaries.
The main programme was held at Lav-tush Ramlila Maidan near the Red Fort in New Delhi, with Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment Dr Virendra Kumar as the Chief Guest. The event was virtually connected with camp locations across the country, bringing beneficiaries, officials and public representatives together on a common platform.
The initiative aims to improve mobility, confidence, self-reliance and quality of life among Divyangjan and senior citizens. The government said assistive devices are not simply support tools but can help people live more independently and participate actively in their families and communities.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Virendra Kumar stressed the need to ensure that welfare schemes and assistive technologies reach eligible beneficiaries at the last mile. He also highlighted the government’s efforts to expand services through 109 operational Pradhan Mantri Divyasha-Vayoshri Kendras (PMD-VKs).
The Minister also spoke about 28 Single Window Cross-Disability Early Intervention Centres, rehabilitation services through National Institutes and Composite Regional Centres, and initiatives supporting Divyang sportspersons.
Praveen Kumar, Chairman and Managing Director of ALIMCO, highlighted the organisation’s focus on improving the quality, design and usefulness of assistive devices. He also pointed to the growing use of digital technology to make service delivery faster and more transparent.
“ALIMCO remains committed to the empowerment and welfare of Divyangjan and Senior Citizens,” Kumar said, adding that the organisation aims to ensure timely access to quality assistive devices that strengthen independence, self-reliance and dignity.
The government also called for greater participation from State Governments, district administrations, NGOs, civil society and the corporate sector to build a more accessible and inclusive India.
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