Mangaluru : District Administration, DK Jilla Panchayath along with other organizations observed World Disability Day’, here on Wednesday Dec.3 at Shanti Nilaya in Mangaluru.

Rs. 20 lakh worth Facilities, scholarships and equipments was distributed among the differently-abled during the function.

Preceding the formal stage programme, many students from special schools and disabled persons held a rally from Jyothi Circle (Ambedkar circle) to Shanti Nilaya auditorium.

The beneficiaries included students who received monthly scholarships and fee reimbursements, married couples who were given Rs. one lakh to finance the wedding, three stitching machines to encourage self-employment, wheelchairs, elbow crutches and tricycles to aid in mobility, among others.

Promising the gathered that he would voice the difficulties of the disabled in the Assembly, J.R. Lobo, Mangaluru South MLA, said a lot more needs to be done to empower the differently-abled. “The post of lift operator in government and private buildings can be reserved for the disabled. This will help them achieve financial independence,” he said.

Deputy commissioner A.B. Ibrahim, City Mayor Mahabala Marla among others were present .