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Priyank Kharge distributed assistive devices worth ₹2.63 crore, promising completion of a new visually impaired school and improved support for persons with disabilities
Kalaburagi
Karnataka RDPR and IT-BT Minister Priyank Kharge distributed assistive devices worth ₹2.63 crore to persons with disabilities at a programme held in the Deputy Commissioner’s office premises. The initiative was jointly organized by the district administration, Zilla Panchayat, Women and Child Development Department, and the Department for Empowerment of Differently Abled and Senior Citizens along with partner organisations.
Beneficiaries received a range of support equipment including tricycles, wheelchairs, Braille kits, hearing aids, reading aids, medical kits, TLM kits for intellectually challenged children, tables, and battery-operated motorised tricycles. Officials said the aim is to improve mobility, learning access, and daily independence for differently abled persons across the district.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Priyank Kharge said a new school for visually impaired children under construction near Chandrashekhar Patil Stadium will be completed and inaugurated by the end of this year. He noted that the existing school building, over 60 years old, had long needed attention despite earlier renovation efforts.
The Minister stressed that support should not stop at distribution of aids alone. He said true empowerment lies in bringing persons with disabilities into the mainstream through skill development, training, and employment opportunities. He also announced plans to set up a Centre of Excellence for Assistive Technology in Kalaburagi in partnership with the Skill Development Department, aimed at providing advanced training and support services.
A dedicated day care centre for children with disabilities is also planned in the district. Land has already been identified and the blueprint prepared. The centre is expected to be completed within a year and will help working parents by ensuring safe care for children during the day.
Speaking at the event, Kalaburagi South MLA Allamaprabhu Patil highlighted ongoing welfare efforts, including distribution of tricycles and new investments in education, health, and sports infrastructure. He also mentioned upcoming projects such as a sports complex at Hadagil Haruti village and a women’s stadium in Kalaburagi.
Several elected representatives and senior officials attended the programme, marking a strong push towards inclusive development in the region.