Sindh Govt releases Rs 800 mln for assistive devices to empower persons with disabilities

KARACHI, Apr 16 (APP): Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Thursday distributed Rs 800 million among 105 partner organisations and NGOs for the provision of assistive devices to persons with disabilities, describing the initiative as a significant step towards inclusion, dignity, and equal opportunity.

Addressing a ceremony organised by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD) at the CM House, the chief minister said that the true measure of a society lies in how it treats its most vulnerable citizens. He added that the initiative reflects the Sindh government’s commitment to building an inclusive and compassionate society where every individual can live with dignity, independence, and confidence.

Murad Shah said that, in collaboration with credible partner organisations, the government is ensuring the provision of wheelchairs, hearing aids, prosthetics, and other assistive devices that can significantly improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities.

He highlighted that the government is pursuing a broader inclusion agenda, including expanding DEPD services to the taluka level, strengthening implementation of the five percent job quota in the public sector, and encouraging its adoption in the private sector.

The chief minister also underlined initiatives aimed at promoting inclusive education, teacher capacity-building in collaboration with international partners, and enhanced coordination for autism rehabilitation centres at both federal and provincial levels.

He appreciated the role of NGOs and partner organisations, noting that their grassroots outreach ensures that support reaches those who need it most. He emphasised that transparency, accountability, and effective implementation remain central to the success of the initiative, while also commending DEPD for advancing disability inclusion policies across Sindh.

Highlighting the importance of evidence-based policymaking, Murad Shah announced plans for a comprehensive disability census to ensure accurate data for improved planning and service delivery.

Earlier, Secretary DEPD Tauha Farooqi gave a detailed presentation outlining the department’s performance, ongoing initiatives, and future roadmap.

DEPD is currently operating through a wide network of 67 government special education and rehabilitation centres, 90 partner NGOs, Braille press facilities, and audio-visual libraries, all aimed at promoting inclusion and accessibility.

Enrolment in special education institutions has increased from 4,794 in 2023 to 6,046 in 2025, marking a growth of over 26 percent, though 2,033 students remain on waiting lists. Karachi recorded the highest increase, while Hyderabad, Sukkur, and Larkana also showed notable progress.

Autism and rehabilitation facilities

Under the Centre for Autism, Rehabilitation and Training Sindh, over 5,359 children have been registered, with 1,069 currently enrolled and 512 awaiting admission. New centres are nearing completion in multiple cities across Sindh.

The Sindh government has approved an endowment fund of Rs 1 billion to ensure the sustainability of these centres.

Similarly, the Sindh Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation is expanding its services, with new facilities operational in Hyderabad and additional centres under construction in several cities.

The secretary also highlighted the chief minister’s flagship “Inclusive City” project, under which 75 acres of land have been allocated to develop a fully accessible and integrated urban environment tailored to the needs of persons with disabilities.

The ceremony featured inclusive performances by special children from various institutions, showcasing their talent and creativity. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also signed between the Benazir Bhutto Shaheed Human Resource Research and Development Board and DEPD to strengthen cooperation in disability empowerment initiatives.

The event concluded with the distribution of cheques to partner organisations and assistive devices to beneficiaries, reinforcing the government’s commitment to building an inclusive Sindh where every citizen has equal opportunities to grow and thrive.

Differently-abled children also presented tableaus highlighting their abilities and talent, demonstrating their readiness to learn and contribute meaningfully to society.