The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD) refers to government bodies dedicated to the welfare, inclusion, and empowerment of differently-abled citizens in Pakistan and India. These departments provide certification, education, legal support, and employment facilitation for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
Sindh, Pakistan: DEPD
Operated by the Government of Sindh, this provincial body focuses on accessibility and PWD welfare.
Key Functions:
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Certification: Issues Disability Assessment Certificates via the Sindh Persons with Disabilities Protection Authority (SPDPA).
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Education & Training: Manages special schools and centers, including the Center of Excellence for Disability Inclusion (CEDI) in Karachi.
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Legislation: Enforces the Sindh Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Act 2018, mandating accessible spaces and a 5% employment quota for PWDs.
Contact Information:
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Address: 186 Street 4, Block 15, Gulistan-e-Johar, Karachi
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Website: depd.sindh.gov.pk
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Phone: (021) 99333425 | 0300-2423062
India: DEPwD
Under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, India’s DEPwD implements national programs for disability inclusion.
Key Initiatives:
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UDID Card: Unique Disability ID for verification.
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Accessible India Campaign: Barrier-free public buildings and transport.
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Acts Administered: Enforces the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, including a 4% government job reservation.
Headquarters: Antyodaya Bhawan, CGO Complex, New Delhi
Other Regions in Pakistan
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Punjab: Managed by Social Welfare & Bait-ul-Maal Department and CRPD.
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Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP): Directorate of Social Welfare, Special Education & Women Empowerment.
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Federal (Islamabad): Council on Rights of Persons with Disabilities oversees federal-level policies.
Conclusion
The DEPD in Sindh and India plays a crucial role in ensuring education, employment, and legal rights for persons with disabilities, promoting inclusion and empowerment across society.
