linking Divyang people into mainstream by utilising their expertise as a powerful tool in various traits to add on to the existing human resources is the major challenge for the government. According to the 2011 census, approximately 2.68 crore differently-abled people reside in India and, among them, about 1.4 crore Divyang fall in the age group 15-35 year.
Notably, most of them are jobless or else do not pursue any occupation in the absence of basic amenities, despite of the fact that utilizing their skills can yield better results and can contribute in further advancement of the economy. A survey report of an US based NGO, VSO revealed that more than two per cent Divyang of the total population of differently abled people across the nation lives in Jharkhand.
Presently, the State government covers 1.75 lakh differently abled people under social welfare scheme and gives a monthly remuneration of Rs600 to each Divyang. “The government is doing its part, however, there are certain limitations. To link all Divyang with some constructive traits, equal participation of every sector is must. As per the Disability Act, 1955, State can provide assistance to differently-abled people as per its capacity only,” said, Disability Commissioner (GoJ), Satish Chandra.
A survey conducted in the six districts of the State, stated that even in technical field or any industry-integrated setup, differently-abled people’s representation is very low due to certain restraints. Issues ranging from skilled human resource crunch to scholarship programme for students, due to apathy and negligence of several sectors, differently-abled people ability are yet not fully absorbed in any segment, be it public or private.
A survey specifically focusing on differently-abled people associated with Industrial Training Institute (ITI) functioning across the State mentioned the presence of Divyang people that is eventually very less in number. The vital reasons mentioned in the report prepared by a research scholar of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) have highlighted few essential areas of concern. The report suggests easing guidelines for all Divyang persons at the industries recruiting them, constitution of disability action units at earliest, involvement of more industries to cover differently-abled people under different professions, enhancement of curriculum at par with technical courses is also required, apprentice for Divyang, reservation in group C and D government jobs must be made mandatory.
At present, the ITIs are functioning with partial involvement of differently abled people. Around 32 more ITIs are likely to be established in different districts across Jharkhand in coming days. The State right now does not have any Braille Press. Interestingly, in India only nine Braille Press are in existence, out of nine only five are functional, stated a resource person from VSO while presenting the survey report on inclusion of youth with disabilities in skill development and other their presence in different sectors.