Minister for Social Welfare, ARI & Trainings and Science & Technology, Sajad Gani Lone today called for collective efforts to empower the differently-abled as no nation can progress and prosper without empowering each and every section of society.The Minister stated this during a function organized by Department of Social Welfare to celebrate the 209th Birth Anniversary of Louis Braille at Greenland Palace here today.Speaking on the occasion, the Minister described Louis Braille as a utmost source of inspiration who despite being himself blind had turned out to be the redeemer for the blinds by developing the world’s pre-eminent system of touch reading and writing that has empowered their world with the powerful tool of literacy and said that his contribution towards this revolutionary move shall always remain alive in the history.The Minister maintained that the blind and other physical challenged people are not disabled; they are the special children of God who have been blessed with special abilities and are doing great job in every sphere of life.“Every individual must come forward and contribute their part by serving these special children of God”, the Minister affirmed.
He said that the society had a bigger role to play and they must prioritize their duty as these children need their support to become self-sustained and live a dignified life like others. He also asked the young government officers to create a legacy for others by indulging more in such welfare activities.“Government will make every possible effort to make a better world for these children to live in”, the Minister maintained.Responding to the demand for enhancement of seats in the Residential School for Blind (RSB), the Minister assured that the Government will take immediate steps to increase the present seats as per the feasibility and infrastructure.He also instructed the concerned officers to fulfill the demands of the Blind School pertaining to recruitment of staff, upgrade the existing infrastructure and other basic facilities for the inmates.To mark the day, students of RSB, displayed their talent through skits, solo and group songs whereas Master Arush described and elaborated on the life and contribution of Louis Braille.The Minister, on the occasion, interacted with the inmates of the RSB and appreciated their unique talent and performance.
Renowned artists Suraj Singh and Master Kartar Chand, Sanjay Vidrohi, inmate of RSB Anmol Kumar, with the active support of the artists of Information Department, Ravi Kumar and Bunty Kumar presented mesmerizing performances of Ghazals, Dogri, Punjabi and Sufi songs that enthralled the audience.Secretary Social Welfare, Sajad Ahmed Khan, Deputy Commissioner Jammu, Kumar Rajeev Ranjan, Director Social Welfare Department Vir Ji Hangloo, District Social Welfare Officer Dr Vikas Sharma besides large number of social workers, prominent citizens and functionaries of the Social Welfare Department were present on the occasion.