Mann Govt’s Inclusive Effort - Giving Dignity, Opportunities and Self-Reliance to Divyangs

Punjab: The land of Punjab, known for the blessings of Gurus and human values, is today witnessing a new revolution. This is not a revolution of roads or electricity poles, but of the dignity and empowerment of that section of society which was often sidelined by calling them “Divyangjans” (persons with disabilities).

What are Mann govt's initiatives for deaf-mute and physically disabled people?

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, the Punjab government’s work for deaf-mute and physically disabled people is not just government schemes, but a bridge of sensitivity and respect. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s government has extended its hand to that section which has faced the most challenges in life - our Divyang brothers and sisters. This is not just an administrative step, this is the pinnacle of sensitivity.

This is the realization that government is not just for roads and buildings, but to listen to those silent prayers that remained unheard until now. What the Mann government has done for Divyangs cannot simply be called ‘welfare work’ - that would diminish its importance. This is actually a massive effort to return every Divyang person’s fundamental right to live with dignity.

What are Mann govt's historic initiatives?

The Mann government of Punjab has taken a historic initiative toward empowering and providing justice to Divyang children. In August 2025, Punjab set an example by becoming the first state in India to appoint sign language interpreters, translators and special teachers under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.

This decision will prove to be a blessing for children who have difficulty hearing or speaking and who are often ignored in legal and educational processes. This initiative is not limited to just legal and political matters. In Patiala, a decision was made to develop a technical solution called “Sign Lingua Franca,” which converts spoken words into sign language. This technology can change the lives of millions who are unable to hear.

The Mann government is not just announcing schemes, but is bringing real change by combining technology and human sensitivity. The Mann government’s initiative shows that governance runs not just on statistics, but from the heart. This is not just a policy, but an emotional journey - a journey that shows hope to a silent child.

How is Punjab setting example by its initiatives?

With this step, Punjab has not only set an example but also proved that when sensitivity and willpower come together, even the biggest obstacles are removed. This is the Mann government’s promise of a smile and a new, empowered future for every Divyang child.

Punjab has become the first state in India to implement sign language in its Legislative Assembly for the convenience of Divyangs. Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur shared this information and said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab government has taken this unique initiative to address the concerns of Divyangs.

This made Divyangs realize that they are also an integral part of this society. This gave them the opportunity to understand government policies and express their opinions. Dr. Baljit Kaur also highlighted that under Section 40 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, it is necessary to make communication systems accessible to make Divyangs aware of their human rights. In this sequence, the Governor’s address in the Punjab Assembly, budget session and other important discussions were also broadcast in sign language.

Mobility is the biggest need to move forward in life. The government has freed Divyangs from this economic and physical burden. By releasing a large amount of ₹85 lakhs for free bus travel for Divyangs and blind people, the government has provided financial relief to lakhs of people. ₹85 lakhs! This is not just a number.

This is the fuel for lakhs of dreams, which will continue the facility of free bus travel for Divyangs and blind persons. Think, now they can go to school without any worry, search for employment, or travel far to meet their loved ones. This initiative proves that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the government works not just with announcements, but from the heart. This amount is an investment in their dignity, so that they can overcome every challenge and join the mainstream of society with confidence and self-reliance.

What the Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur said?

Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur said that under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab government is committed to the welfare of every section and is paying special attention to helping Divyangs and raising their standard of living. Dr. Baljit Kaur said that so far the Punjab government has released Rs 287.95 crores as financial assistance to Divyangs, which has benefited 2 lakh 76 thousand 175 eligible beneficiaries.

She said that for the effective implementation of this scheme, the government has made a budget provision of Rs 495 crores during the current financial year 2025-26. Dr. Baljit Kaur said that connecting Divyangs to the mainstream of society is the top priority of the Punjab government. Therefore, along with financial assistance, rapid steps are being taken to empower them through employment opportunities, skill development and convenient infrastructure. She said that the government’s goal is not just to help, but to make every Divyang self-reliant.

The biggest dream for a Divyang person is self-reliance. The government has launched a major campaign to fulfill this dream. A special campaign has been started to fill 1754 direct recruitment and 556 promotion posts lying vacant under the Divyang quota in government departments. The Mann government’s biggest contribution is the step taken towards self-reliance.

The government has ensured employment for Divyangs under their rights and the government has ended decades of neglect. This step by the Mann government has come as a new ray of hope, showing that a developed society is one where no person, for any reason, is left behind.

This decision will become an inspiration for other states of India. Under the leadership of Mann government, Punjab has shown a path where we all should work together, so that no part of our society is left behind. This is a story that touches hearts and reminds us that when we all walk together, no distance is impossible.

The Mann government in Punjab has shown how a small beginning can lay the foundation for a big and positive change. This is not just ‘work’, but a ‘revolution’. “The Mann government has proved - true development happens when every section of society can express itself in its own ‘language’.”

What are Mann government's initiatives?

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s government has proved that a true welfare government is one that gives dignity and opportunity to the weakest and most needy section of society. These works done for Divyangs in Punjab are not just schemes, but a genuine effort to boost their confidence and give them a chance to live with pride. Today every Divyang citizen in Punjab is feeling that they are not objects of pity, but equal partners in nation-building.