In a welfare initiative for persons with disabilities, the Department for the Welfare of Differently-Abled Persons, in collaboration with the District Administration, Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO), and Indian Oil Corporation, distributed assistive devices worth ₹52.91 lakh to 251 beneficiaries at a function in Nagapattinam District Collectorate on Tuesday.

Nagapattinam District Collector P. Akash handed over the devices to the recipients. Kilvelur MLA V.P. Nagai Mali participated in the event.

The distribution followed six special medical assessment camps held across the district in February 2025. Expert teams evaluated eligible individuals, based on which a wide range of assistive devices were provided. These included motorised three-wheeled vehicles, joystick-operated wheelchairs, standard wheelchairs for children and adults, crutches, smart canes, learning aids, artificial limbs, and hearing aids. Additionally, one beneficiary received a smartphone and another a Braille kit.

The aids ranged in value from ₹450 to ₹60,000. Notable among them were 122 hearing aids valued at ₹5.49 lakh and various prosthetic and mobility aids worth ₹6.38 lakh. The initiative aims to significantly enhance mobility, independence, and overall quality of life for the recipients.

Chief Educational Officer M.G.C. Subashini, Indian Oil Corporation General Manager Bindu, and ALIMCO Junior Manager Rishabh Mahendra were among the officials present.

EOM/