Govt Launches Special Recruitment Drive for Disabled Persons

by The_unmuteenglish

Chandigarh, December 10, 2024: The Punjab government has initiated a special recruitment drive to address the backlog of vacancies reserved for Persons with Disabilities (PWD) across various departments, reaffirming its commitment to their welfare.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, during a review meeting of the Punjab Social Justice and Child Welfare Department, revealed that 1,754 direct recruitment posts and 556 promotion posts for PWDs remain unfilled. He directed officials to expedite the recruitment process.

The Chief Minister also approved amendments to the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, aimed at strengthening protections for disabled individuals. Mann emphasized their role as “real heroes of society,” highlighting their resilience and contributions despite challenges.

In further measures, the Punjab government has extended free bus travel for dependents of visually impaired individuals and introduced a 50% concession on fares for differently-abled passengers on Punjab Roadways and PRTC buses. Over 7.5 lakh passengers benefited from this initiative in 2023-24, costing the state Rs 2.19 crore.

Besides, the government has provided scholarships worth Rs 3.37 crore to 12,607 differently-abled students and extended Rs 278.17 crore in state pensions to 2.65 lakh beneficiaries during 2024-25. Loans totaling Rs 1.31 crore were granted to 105 differently-abled individuals at concessional rates, and booths were allocated to 21 beneficiaries through agencies like Milkfed and Markfed.

Chief Minister Mann reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enabling a dignified life for PWDs, pledging continued efforts for their welfare and empowerment

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