Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister, Dr Mukul Sangma today inaugurated the Awareness and Interaction Programme on the National Handicapped Finance Development Corporation (NHFDC) Scheme for persons with disabilities organized by the office of the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (Social Welfare Department) and the Meghalaya Cooperative Apex Bank Ltd (MCAB) at Hotel Pinewood, Shillong in the presence of the Social Welfare Minister, Mr J A Lyngdoh, Chairperson MCAB, Mrs Roshan Warjri, Commissioner & Secretary, Social Welfare Department, Mr A Som and Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Mrs I R Sangma among others.It may be mentioned that the 'National Handicapped Finance and Development Corporation' has been incorporated by Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India with the objectives of promoting economic development, self employment and other ventures for the benefit and economic rehabilitation of the persons with disabilities and also in assisting such individuals by way of loans and advances for economically and financially viable schemes and projects etc. The Corporation can also consider grant of Term Loan to a disabled entrepreneur or group of disabled entrepreneurs through the channelising agency which is the MCAB in Meghalaya.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Mukul said that the NHFDC scheme is one of the opportunities provided by the Government of India for empowering the people with disabilities which will also make them feel that they are not a burden either to the family or the society. He said that this scheme should reach out to all parts of the State so that persons with disabilities are aware and avail the opportunity. He urge upon the implementing department to ensure that the target groups are benefited by the scheme. He also proposes that all interest component of a loan which will be availed by a person with disability is subsidised.
Dr Mukul also said that the 3 percent job reservation for the persons with disabilities should be taken up in letter in spirit. Social Welfare Minister, Mr J A Lyngdoh in his brief speech assured to provide all assistance for the implementation of the scheme throughout the State.
Among others who spoke on the occasion were Chairperson MCAB, Mrs Roshan Warjri and Commissioner & Secretary, Social Welfare Department, Mr A Som.