None needs a sewing machine?

In spite of repeated announcements through various modes of communications to parents of the differently abled to get free sewing machines, the response is lukewarm, said P. Chandrasekar, District Differently abled Welfare Officer, here on Thursday.

Mr. Chandrasekar told The Hindu that the scheme was evolved to support the parents of those physically affected, hearing and visually challenged, and the mentally challenged children.

Supply of free sewing machines to parents of those mentally challenged too were made part of the scheme. The department started receiving applications from parents from January.

They were informed through the Education Department, and local panchayats.

So far the department has received only 137 applications. Of these only 64 were from the parents of mentally challenged children, 36 from speech impaired and visually challenged and rest of physically challenged, Mr. Chandrasekar added.

Eligible applicants would be called for a interview during the first week of June, he said.

The district has more than 9,000 differently abled aged over 18 who were getting monthly pension and other benefits. About 5,400 were getting aid through the department of the differently abled welfare, Mr. Chandrasekar said.