KARACHI – Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah announced Rs400 million in financial aid for specially-abled individuals at a ceremony held at the Chief Minister House. The support, delivered under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD), was distributed among 56 partner organisations, with funds already transferred to beneficiaries.
CM Shah revealed that the DEPD budget would be doubled to Rs800 million in the upcoming fiscal year. In addition, 20 new centres for persons with disabilities have been established in partnership with NGOs, while 15 existing centres have received capacity upgrades to serve more people.
He added that transport services are now available at 66 centres, offering pick-and-drop facilities for specially-abled individuals. Importantly, 12 rehabilitation centres—one in each district—are expected to become functional by the end of this year, further strengthening support at the grassroots level.
On inclusive education, the chief minister announced the creation of a special directorate and curriculum to enroll children with disabilities in regular schools. He highlighted the importance of assistive technologies like wheelchairs, prosthetics, and communication tools as key to promoting dignity and independence.
Moreover, CM Shah directed all government offices to install wheelchair ramps, stating that the Chief Minister House has already been made fully accessible. These steps reflect the provincial government’s broader goal to build an inclusive and barrier-free society.
The event concluded on a heartwarming note as specially-abled children performed patriotic tableaus in tribute to the Pakistan Army. They also presented the chief minister with their hand-made artworks, drawing applause from the audience.