Karachi: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah reaffirmed his government’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and empowered society by announcing Rs 400 million in financial assistance for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
According to Chief Minister’s Secretariat, at the Rs 400 million cheque distribution event organised by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD), Murad Ali Shah emphasised the importance of sustainable partnerships, access to assistive technologies, inclusive education, and equal employment opportunities as central priorities of the provincial government. The event, held at the CM’s office, was attended by provincial ministers, including Sharjeel Memon, Nasir Hussain Shah, Saeed Ghani, and others, along with representatives from partner organisations focused on disability rights.
The Chief Minister distributed cheques to 56 partner organisations as part of the Rs 400 million financial assistance package aimed at improving the lives of PWDs, with the funds alr
eady transferred to recipients’ accounts. He highlighted the significance of assistive technologies, stating that items like wheelchairs, prosthetic limbs, and communication tools represent independence, dignity, and opportunity. Special performances by children, including tableaux paying tribute to the Pakistan Armed Forces, were part of the event, showcasing artwork created by these children, which was later gifted to the Chief Minister.
Murad Shah announced a budget expansion, revealing that the DEPD’s budget for the next fiscal year has been increased to Rs 800 million. He also mentioned the establishment of 20 new centres for persons with disabilities in partnership with NGOs, enhancing the capacity of 15 existing centres, and the provision of transportation support for 66 centres. Furthermore, 12 autism centres are planned to be operational by the end of the year, with intentions to establish at least one centre in every district.
Regarding CRTS, the Chief Minister announced the inauguration of the CR
TS Centre in Larkana this year, with 25 children already registered at the Shaheed Benazirabad Centre. A new CRTS Centre will also be established in Mirpurkhas, as directed by President Asif Zardari. Speaking about inclusive education, he noted the creation of a separate directorate to ensure the enrolment of children with disabilities in mainstream schools and the development of a specialised curriculum.
The event was dedicated to the memory of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, who, according to the Chief Minister, ‘sacrificed her life to protect democracy.’ He also mandated that all government buildings must have wheelchair ramps, stating that the CM House is now fully wheelchair accessible.
Mr Shah acknowledged the progress made but stressed that much more remains to be done. He credited the partner organisations for filling crucial gaps and emphasized the necessity of their continued cooperation to achieve lasting change. ‘Inclusion, accessibility, and dignity are not privileges-they are rights. With our
partners, we aim to build a better, more compassionate society,’ the Chief Minister concluded.