Financial aid for mentally challenged

The State government has agreed to provide financial aid for educational training of mentally challenged up to 25 years of age, under integrated education of the disabled programme for children and it would help the special children who are suffering from paralysis, autism and multi-disorders who are in special schools.

Briefing reporters, Karnataka State Association for Special Educators and Supportive Staff Secretary Vasanth Kumar Shetty said after introducing the new programme in 2010, the department was providing fund to all 38 special schools properly unlike before.

However, from 2013-14, the government suddenly stopped fund for the children who were aged above 18, in special schools.

The association had protested against the move and the government had to form a subcommittee of experts and officials. Based on the committee report, the age limit has been extended, he said.

“We hope that government would release fund from next year,” Vasanth Kumar Shetty said.
Meanwhile, he expressed concern that many of the sexual harassment victims are mentally disabled. The government should support to provide professional training to them.
Association President Agnes Kunder, Udupi District Representative Sister Telma was present.