Shillong May 2: The ​​Centr​al government ​​will set up a Composite Regional Centre for persons with disabilities in Shillong and the Centre will function under the administrative control of the National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities.

This was conveyed by Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. Thawarchand Gehlot to Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma who called on him in New Delhi on Wednesday.

The Chief Minister discussed issues concerning person with disabilities during the meeting and the Union Minister assured to set up the Composite Regional Centre for Persons with Disabilities at Shillong that aims to create resources and infrastructure required for developing services for persons with disabilities in the state.

The Chief Minister informed that the meeting with the Union Minister was very positive and fruitful as the Central government has assured full cooperation and support to organise two mega camps to distribute assistive aid to needy persons with disabilities in Shillong and Tura.

As part of the Central government initiative, a number of outreach programmes, capacity building and skill development programmes will be held in Meghalaya.

The Chief Minister also informed that comprehensive diagnostic assessment, therapeutic, educational and vocational services to persons with all disabilities will be conducted from time to time with the Centre’s support.

“Our government is committed to work for overall development of persons with disabilities and provide them the must needed support. We will also provide sports among persons with disabilities and the Central government has assured to set up a stadium for persons with disabilities,” the Chief Minister informed, adding that the state government was trying to provide enabling support to help these vulnerable sections of the society.

Meghalaya has an estimated 44,730 number of persons with disabilities.