'Will create more jobs for differently abled'

The Delhi government will try to create as many jobs as possible for the differently abled by organising job fairs in the city, said Labour and Transport Minister Gopal Rai at an event on the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Thursday.

“In the last job fair, several differently abled people found employment. The process will be boosted. We will ensure that more number of differently abled people find jobs in the next job fair through a special segment. It is important they become financially independent,” said Rai.

The job fair in August had offered jobs to the economically weaker section and differently abled. Thirty companies had participated in the summit. Around 300 differently abled people had found jobs through the summit.

The state government is now planning to invite over 350 companies for the next job fair, said Social Welfare Minister Sandeep Kumar. “We will invite between 350-400 companies to the upcoming job fair so that more differently abled people get significant job opportunities.”

Kumar urged Transport Minister Rai to improve the transport facilities for the differently abled in the city. He admitted the existing transport system was not disabled friendly.

“The government is currently closely working with NGOs to draft the policies for the disabled. We are also exploring schemes and new programmes for the disabled in the city. We will also welcome suggestions from citizens on this issue,” said Kumar.

Seven differently abled persons were awarded for their achievements in sports, entrepreneurship and social work at the event as part of the State Awards for Persons with Disabilities, 2015. Differently abled students from across schools also performed on the occasion.

‘Halfway homes’
The government is now planning to come up with halfway homes for people with mental disabilities in Rohini on the basis of a pilot phase. It has roped in several non-governmental organisations to settle on a model to run the home.

The proposed module will include counselling, occupational therapy, music therapy, yoga and meditation therapy, recreational facilities, outdoor sport activities, vocational training and medical treatment.