Rehabilitation of disabled is a responsibility of the govt: Dr. Ayesha Ghaus Pasha

Lahore: Provincial Finance Minister Dr. Ayesha Ghaus Pasha has said that Punjab government has given a proof of good governance by issuing Khidmat Cards for financial assistance to two lakhs disabled persons in the first phase through Social Protection Authority for ensuring proper utilization of a huge sum of Rs. 119 billion allocated  for development projects in social sectors during current financial year. She said that for the first time in history of the country, a programme has been introduced for the benefit of such neglected segment of the society as had been ignored in the past.

She expressed this while addressing at the function of ‘Punjab Khidmat Card’ Programme launched by Punjab government for disabled persons.

The Provincial Minister said that after the provision of artificial limbs and other equipment through ‘Punjab Khidmat Card’ Programme, disabled persons will be able to earn their livelihood. She said that free vocational training, interest-free loans and internship opportunities will be provided to disabled persons so that they can start their own business and become an important member of the society and play their positive role for the development and progress of the country.

Dr. Ayesha Ghous Pasha said that the financial assistance will be provided to the elderly and completely disabled persons through Khidmat Cards on quarterly basis so that they could bear their expenses to some extent. She said that disabled persons are not burden but their rehabilitation is the responsibility of the state. She said that launching of Khidmat Card Programme is not a favor to the disabled persons but Punjab government considers their service as an honor.