Date:04/05/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/05/04/stories/2008050455640100.htm

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Pension scheme ensures peaceful life for them

K. Raju

DINDIGUL: Mentally challenged persons, including children, at Gandhigram and neighbouring villages need not stretch their hands out for a square meal.

They are not treated as ‘unwanted members’ by their families, thanks to the joint efforts of Gandhigram Rural University and Department of Rehabilitation in bringing them under a monthly pension scheme.

A survey taken by the university has shown that the scheme has made a big difference in the lives of mentally challenged persons in marginalised groups.

Ambika (70), a mentally retarded woman of Chettiapatti, had been struggling for a meal a day.

With no support from her family, she had to roam on Madurai-Dindigul highway to get alms.

Now, she leads a peaceful life. Sumitra (23), another mentally retarded woman at Valayapatti, spent most of her time in grazing livestock, with no safety or security for her. Now, her family members do not ask her to go for work for a meagre wage. “I need not depend on others for my bread,” she said.

Similarly, 20 mentally challenged persons, mostly in remote villages near foothills of Sirumalai, have started leading a peaceful life.

The assistance had ensured safety and security to these persons and brought harmony and peace to their homes, said M. P. Boraian, Disability Programme Coordinator, GRU.

The university has been working among 200 physically and mentally challenged in 30 villages in Athoor block.