HIRANAGAR: Union Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) Dr Jitendra Singh asserted that the central government has institutionalized key reforms to guarantee equal opportunity, self-reliance, and dignity for persons with disabilities, driving a fundamental shift in public perception since 2014.

Addressing the media on the sidelines of the ‘Divyang and Family Sammelan’ organized by voluntary welfare outfit Saksham at Hiranagar, the Union Minister stated that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led administration has focused on harnessing the inherent capabilities of every citizen for nation-building rather than viewing persons with disabilities through the lens of sympathy or charity.

Appreciating Saksham for its dedicated pan-India welfare initiatives over the last decade, Dr Singh noted that replacing the term “Viklang” with “Divyang” was a conscious effort to restore honor and instil a positive mindset across society.

Key Policy Milestones for Divyangjan
  • Government Employment: Reservation quota elevated from 3% to 4%.
  • Higher Education: Dedicated seat reservation increased from 3% to 5%.
  • Coverage Expansion: Recognized categories of disabilities expanded from 6–7 to 21.
  • Infrastructure & Transit: Accessibility upgrades across ~90 domestic airports and newly constructed public buildings.
  • Financial & Assistive Aid: Streamlined access to concessional credit lines and subsidized assistive equipment.

“Persons with disabilities must not be treated as recipients of pity. They are equal stakeholders in our country’s growth story, possessing immense talent that needs enablement and institutional backing.”

Focus on Early Detection and Maternal Empowerment

Dr Jitendra Singh placed strong emphasis on empowering mothers, highlighting that a mother serves as the foundational pillar in identifying, supporting, and cultivating the potential of a child with special needs.

He highlighted the role of modern medical advances, noting that prenatal diagnostics, genetic screening, and gene sequencing technologies can now facilitate early diagnosis and timely interventions for congenital and developmental conditions. He lauded the ‘Matri Shakti Conference’ organized by Saksham for generating grassroots awareness regarding scientific tools and welfare frameworks.

Hiranagar Infra: Stadium, Express Corridor & Border Amenities

Reviewing local developmental milestones, Dr Singh announced that administrative procedures and land transfer formalities for the proposed national-level Arun Jaitley Memorial Stadium in Hiranagar are nearing completion. He acknowledged the groundwork carried out by former MLA Rajiv Jasrotia and indicated that foundation-laying plans will be finalized shortly.

The Minister further reported major progress across regional connectivity and security infrastructure, noting that the Express Corridor is approaching completion, with road networks reaching up to the international border and Zero Line. Complementing connectivity, telecommunication mobile towers and protective border bunkers have been fully erected to serve local residents.