If proper opportunities are given, disabled persons too can lead a self-reliant life, said Block Education Officer S G Nagesh.

Speaking after ianugurating a health check-up camp for children with special requirements under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan here on Wednesday, he said disability was not a curse, and there were many ways in the medical field to solve it scientifically.

Instead of sympathy, disabled persons need opportunities to participate in various events. They should make use of the assistance given by government as well as non-governmental organisations, he advised.

Dr Sadashivappa appealed NGOs to come forward to give more encouragement to the physically challenged children. Dr Ravishankar said Central and state governments had opened child development centres at taluk levels in order to identify and solve disabilities.

Experts Dr Chethan, Dr Suresh, Dr Thotaraj, District Education Co-ordinator Gopal, Dr Ramprasad, Dr Lakshmikanth, Ms Renuka, Yuvaraj were the resource persons in the camp.