In a State policy and plan of action for differently abled persons submitted to the High Court recently, the Government has committed itself to work for the welfare of differently abled people. In the matter of jobs, the policy envisages equal opportunities apart from 3 per cent reservation provided against identified government jobs.

The State policy has come in response to P.I.L., which was filed two years ago by some vigilant citizens, complaining about non-implementation of the Persons With Disabilities (PWD) Act, 1995. Avelino D'Souza, President of Disability Rights Association of Goa, a body working for the welfare of the disabled people, hoped the new policy if implemented properly could enable the differently abled people to have better living standards. "The Government promised to implement the policy by 2008, we will watch how they go about it for the next six months and then chart our next course of action if we find lack of seriousness," he told The Hindu on Tuesday.

After the court indictment in the past, the Government promised to amend building bye laws and to take pro-active steps provided to ensure differently abled-friendly environment in the State.

The Department of Social Welfare, which was the nodal department working for the welfare of the differently abled persons, conducted an audit of government buildings, and facilities provided for the disabled persons as a result of the court petition.