Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) Minister Prafulla Samal distributed 150 laptops to blind students pursuing higher education at a special event held at the NCSCDA here on Wednesday.

Department Secretary Niten Chandra, Director Susanta Mohapatra and NCSCDA Assistant Director Ram Kishor Sharma graced as guests.

Stating that laptops with JAWS software were distributed to students, the Minister said the amount was enhanced from Rs 50 lakh to Rs 2 crore per annum from this year to provide free laptops to 250 such beneficiaries.

On the occasion, the Director informed that a pre-recruitment coaching for PwDs would start soon at NCSCDA to help students preparing for competitive examinations.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by SSEPD Under Secretary Ambika Prasad Patnaik.
Source: https://www.dailypioneer.com/2018/state-editions/150-blind-students-provided-free-laptops.html