The Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar visited the Composite Regional Centre (CRC) for Skill Development and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan) Bemina in Srinagar today. The Minister inaugurated the Cross Disability Early Intervention Centre (CDEIC) established in the premises of CRC aimed at providing rehabilitation and early intervention to the specially-able Children. This Centre is well equipped in making proper pre-assessments/diagnosis, rehabilitation programmes at the early stage. 

 Dr. Kumar reviewed the facilities and services offered at CRC Bemina, which include rehabilitation, therapy, and training programs designed to enhance the quality of life for PwDs. The Minister interacted with beneficiaries including Children with special needs, staff and students, emphasizing the government’s commitment to empowering persons with disabilities through accessible infrastructure, skill development, and inclusive policies. Dr. Kumar also visited the Prosthetic & Orthotic workshop and other clinical departments of CRC. 

 The Union Minister also reviewed the progress of Pradhan Mantri Divyasha Kendra (PMDK) and distributed aids and appliances like Motorized Wheelchair, Hearing Aids, LS belts and Walking Sticks among the beneficiaries.  

 Addressing the gathering, Dr. Kumar emphasized the need to introduce new rehabilitation courses at CRC Srinagar to develop a larger pool of professionals. This would pave the way for enhanced rehabilitation services and create job opportunities across the country.  He also emphasized the need to expand the space and requirement of special education kits at the CDEIC Centre, particularly for the Special Education section, he stated.

 Dr. Kumar highlighted the government’s vision of creating an inclusive society where every individual has equal opportunities to thrive. “The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is committed to providing comprehensive support to persons with disabilities. Centers like CRC Bemina and Divyasha Kendra play a pivotal role in achieving this goal by offering specialized services and fostering inclusivity,” he added.  

Besides officials of the department, the event was attended by students, members of the PwD community, whoexpressed their gratitude for the Minister’s visit and the government’s continued support.  Later, the Union Minister visited the Senior Citizens Home at Bagh e Mehtab and interacted with the beneficiaries.