New Delhi, January 4, 2026:
Reiterating the Delhi Government’s commitment to the welfare and empowerment of persons with disabilities, the Minister for Social Welfare, SC/ST/OBC Welfare, Cooperation and Elections, Ravinder Indraj, on Saturday said that the government is providing sustained support in the form of financial assistance, residential hostels and assistive devices to ensure dignity, independence and equal opportunities for differently-abled citizens. He was addressing programmes organised on the occasion of Braille Day and the birth anniversary of Louis Braille at Braille Bhawan, Rohini, and Seva Kutir Hostel, Kingsway Camp.
During the events, the Minister honoured talented students and paid tribute to Louis Braille for his historic contribution to the empowerment of visually impaired persons across the world. He said Braille is not merely a system of reading and writing, but a powerful medium that has enabled generations of visually impaired individuals to access education, employment and self-expression.
Recognition of Talent and Achievement
At both venues, Ravinder Indraj praised the confidence, talent and determination displayed by visually impaired children and students. He said that physical limitations do not define a person’s potential, adding that success is shaped by determination, discipline and mindset. Referring to the stage performances by students, the Minister said they clearly demonstrated that extraordinary achievements are possible through dedication and consistent practice, even when resources are limited.
He noted that such platforms play an important role in encouraging children with disabilities and strengthening their self-belief. According to him, recognising talent publicly sends a strong message that society values ability over disability.
Policy Approach Towards Disability Empowerment
Addressing students and officials at Seva Kutir Hostel, Kingsway Camp, the Minister said the Delhi Government is translating the vision of moving from “disabled” to “divyang” into concrete policies and programmes. He emphasised that empowerment of persons with disabilities is a priority area for the government and that all efforts are being made to ensure their active participation in mainstream society.
He stated that the government’s approach is focused on enabling self-reliance through education, skill development and social security, rather than limiting support to welfare alone.
Key Decisions and Initiatives Announced
Monthly Financial Assistance for High-Support-Need Persons
The Minister informed that a scheme providing financial assistance of ₹6,000 per month has been implemented for the care of persons with disabilities who require high levels of support. He said this assistance is aimed at reducing the financial burden on families and ensuring better care and dignity for individuals with severe disabilities.
Launch of Atal Drishti Hostel in Timarpur
He announced that the Atal Drishti Hostel has been started in Timarpur for visually impaired girl students pursuing college education. The hostel is intended to provide a safe and supportive residential environment, enabling students to continue higher education without logistical or financial constraints.
Expansion of Hostels and Assistive Devices
The Minister said the government will continue to establish new hostels and provide assistive devices for poor, underprivileged and differently-abled students. He added that access to residential facilities and modern assistive tools is essential for ensuring educational continuity and independence among students with disabilities.
Government’s Broader Welfare Vision
Ravinder Indraj said the Chief Minister of Delhi, Rekha Gupta, is deeply sensitive to the concerns of students and persons with disabilities. Guided by the principle of “Nar Seva, Narayan Seva,” the government is consistently working towards inclusive public welfare initiatives. He added that the administration is committed to addressing the needs of children with disabilities at every level, from early education to higher studies.
Braille Bhawan Programme and Competitions
Earlier in the day, at the programme organised by the All India Confederation of the Blind at Braille Bhawan, Rohini, the Minister honoured winners of Braille Reading and Writing competitions conducted in Hindi and English, along with the Madan Lal Essay Competition. Students from 19 schools across 11 states participated in these competitions, reflecting the growing reach and relevance of Braille education across the country.
The Minister appreciated the efforts of educational institutions and organisations working for the visually impaired and said such competitions help promote literacy, confidence and healthy competition among students.
Dignitaries Present
The programme was attended by several prominent representatives of organisations working in the field of disability welfare, including Jawahar Lal Kaul, General Secretary of the All India Confederation of the Blind; Ramesh Prasad Singh, Executive Member; Anil Kumar Aneja, President; Dinesh Batra; Manjula Rath; Ranju Singh; and Jasmer Singh Pannu.
Commitment to Inclusive Development
Concluding his address, the Minister said that the Delhi Government will continue to strengthen policies and infrastructure aimed at empowering persons with disabilities. He reiterated that inclusive development cannot be achieved unless every citizen, regardless of physical ability, is given the opportunity to learn, grow and contribute meaningfully to society.
