Telangana to expand disability welfare and add intermediate classes in special schools

On Saturday, Telangana Welfare Minister Adluri Lakshman Kumar announced a series of expanded welfare measures for persons with disabilities, including the upcoming introduction of Intermediate classes in special schools in Karimnagar, Mahbubnagar, and Miryalaguda. Speaking at an event in Hyderabad, the minister also revealed that the state government is considering raising monthly disability pensions and has doubled marriage financial assistance.

The announcements were made during the 146th birth anniversary celebrations of Helen Keller held in Hyderabad. During his address, Lakshman Kumar emphasized that persons with disabilities must be treated as equal partners in the state's progress rather than merely as welfare beneficiaries.

Among the key policy updates, the government is considering raising the monthly disability pension from ₹4,000 to ₹6,000. The state also plans to constitute an Advisory Board for Persons with Disabilities to better address community needs.

Financial support for marriages involving persons with disabilities has already been doubled, increasing from ₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakh. The minister also highlighted that nearly 2,000 beneficiaries across all 33 districts have received scooters, electric mobility vehicles, and assistive devices over the past two-and-a-half years. He added that teachers in special schools are receiving their salaries on time.

In terms of housing and employment, persons with disabilities are being prioritized under the Indiramma Housing Scheme and other welfare programs. Additionally, government employees with disabilities are permitted to seek transfers to their preferred locations under the provisions of GO 34.

During the celebration, Lakshman Kumar distributed laptops, mobile phones, and assistive devices to meritorious SSC, Intermediate, and degree students. He also announced that a statue of disability rights activist Javed Abidi will be installed on the department's premises in the future.

Reflecting on the occasion, the minister recalled the life of Helen Keller, noting that she lost her sight and hearing at 19 months but went on to become the first deafblind person to graduate from university, later working as an author, speaker, and advocate.

"She lived in darkness, but illuminated the lives of millions," Lakshman Kumar said. Addressing the students directly, he added, "You do not deserve sympathy; you deserve opportunities."