People’s mindset towards Divyangjans must change: V-P M Venkaiah Naidu

By Our Special Correspondent

It is the responsibility of the government & society to prevent any kind of discrimination against them

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday called for a change in people's mindset towards the 'Divyangjan' or differently-able and said it is the responsibility of the government and society on April 17 (PTI).

The Vice President said, "They do not need our sympathy, they rightfully deserve every opportunity to develop their full potential." Speaking at the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (NIEPID) here during his visit to the institute, Naidu appreciated NIEPID for its work in empowering persons with Intellectual Disability and their families.

Naidu said it was also important to sensitize teachers and non-teaching staff in schools to the needs of the differently-able people; he urged national institutions and universities in India to accelerate their works relating to accessible smart technology. Naidu called for all-out efforts to make the Divyangjan people financially independent by identifying and honing their skills from a young age.

Values of India are those of 'Sarvejana Sukhino Bhavantu' and 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', he urged everyone – including the government, private sector, civil society and families to take initiatives to empower the differently-abled and fulfil their duty or 'dharma.'.

NIEPID to have a tie-up with institutions like the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology for early detection of disability risk among children. I salute you for nurturing these special children to develop their potential to the maximum extent. He said and appreciated the staff and management of the NIEPID as those people working in the field of rehabilitation should do their duty as a mission.