Salem’s differently-abled lead the way towards self- reliance and empowerment

Radhakrishnan, a differently-abled resident of Dhadakappatti in Salem, always dreamt of traveling independently. "I can finally travel confidently without relying on anyone," he shares with pride. His story is one of many showing how Tamil Nadu’s policies empower differently-abled individuals to live self-reliant lives.
In 2010, late Chief Minister Dr. Kalaignar established a dedicated department for persons with disabilities. Continuing his legacy, the Tamil Nadu government, under Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, actively promotes welfare initiatives through several thoughtful schemes, according to a recent statement from the Salem District Administration.
In the statement Salem District Collector Dr. R. Brindha Devi highlights numerous initiatives for the welfare and economic development of the differently-abled.
In Salem, 18,480 individuals receiving Rs 1,000 per month now benefit from an increased pension. Pensions are provided for disabilities ranging from 40% to 100%, including complete blindness or severe hearing loss. A total of 77,115 disability ID cards have been issued, and over Rs 82.42 crores distributed as maintenance allowances to 12,925 people over the past three years. Salem leads the state in disability welfare benefits.
Additionally, the district has granted Rs 2.76 crores in education scholarships, Rs 41.67 lakhs in bank loan subsidies, and 917 smart devices worth Rs 1.19 crores. Prosthetic limbs worth Rs 47.72 lakhs have been provided to 73 beneficiaries, while 572 people have received petrol scooters with support wheels valued at Rs 5.58 crores. Assistance equipment worth Rs 1.98 crores has been distributed to 1,410 beneficiaries.
The Department for the Welfare of Persons with Disabilities also provides annual education scholarships ranging from Rs 2,000 to Rs 14,000 to students with disabilities, from Class 1 through postgraduate levels. Monthly maintenance allowances of Rs 2,000 are given to those with chronic neurological disorders, muscular dystrophy, spinal injuries, Parkinson’s disease, and other disabilities. Caregivers of severely disabled children receive Rs 1,000 for maintenance.
Under the marriage assistance scheme, persons with 21 types of disabilities who marry, either with or without disabilities, receive Rs 25,000 and 8 grams of gold. If one spouse is a graduate, the amount rises to Rs 50,000.
The government operates special schools and training centers for persons with intellectual and hearing disabilities, as well as rehabilitation homes for those affected by leprosy.
"The government's educational scholarships have given my daughter, who has a vision impairment, the chance to pursue her dream of becoming a teacher," said Meenakshi, a mother from Salem.
"The increased pension helps me meet my daily needs without depending on others. It has brought financial stability and dignity," said Shanmugam, a pension recipient from Salem.
"We are ensuring accessibility is not just a concept but a reality in Tamil Nadu, focusing on full participation for the differently-abled," said District Collector Dr. Brindha Devi.
As these efforts expand, Tamil Nadu’s differently-abled community is being empowered not just to survive, but to thrive, contributing to the state's progress, the statement from the Salem District Administration emphasized.