Odisha government inks pact to empower the disabled

The Odisha government on Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the socio-economic development of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and their inclusive eye health services.

The Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) Department signed the MoU with Sightsavers, an international development organization, to create livelihood and job opportunities for persons with disabilities.

The agreement was signed in the presence of department minister Prafulla Samal.

The agreement aims to promote socio-economic development of PWDs and inclusive eye health services for the vulnerable population in 13 districts of the state, said a statement.

More than 3 lakh youths with disabilities in 13 districts of the state will get the benefit of the programme.

As per the MoU, Sightsavers will provide technical support to the SSEPD Department in facilitating inclusion of persons with disabilities in matters related to private sector employment, skill development and developing sustainable livelihood models for PWDs in the state.

The organization will work with the SSEPD Department and other government agencies like the Odisha Livelihood Mission (OLM), Vocational Rehabilitation Centre (VRC) and the Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS) to create livelihood and employability opportunities for PWDs in the state.

Sightsavers will also work on strengthening disabled people's organisations and their networks in the state by building their knowledge and awareness around disability rights, policies, acts, rules and entitlements.

The programme will also make inclusive health services available for the vulnerable population such as widows, transgenders and the aged, it added.

IANS

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