Bengaluru, Jan 29: In a landmark initiative aimed at empowering persons with disabilities and integrating them into the social and economic mainstream, the Karnataka government will organise the state’s first-ever exclusive job fair for persons with disabilities. The mega employment event will be held at Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru within the next three months, Minister for Skill Development, Livelihood, Medical Education and Raichur District In-charge Dr Sharanaprakash R. Patil announced on Thursday.
Responding to a question raised by BJP MLA Gururaj Shetty Gantihole during Question Hour in the Legislative Assembly, Dr Patil said the special job fair is being organised by the Department of Skill Development and Livelihood and described it as a novel and path-breaking initiative of the state government.
Focus on Economic Self-Reliance
The minister said the core objective of the initiative is to make persons with disabilities economically self-reliant by providing market-relevant employment opportunities.
During the current financial year, the Karnataka Skill Development Corporation (KSDC) is implementing market-oriented vocational training programmes for persons with disabilities across the state. Under this initiative:
- 1,000 candidates will receive skill training
- Tool kits and employment opportunities will be provided
- The programme will be implemented at a total cost of ₹3 crore
Boost to Entrepreneurship & Training Reservation
Dr Patil also informed the House that entrepreneurship development training programmes are being conducted for persons with disabilities through the Entrepreneurship Development Department.
As per government orders, the reservation for persons with disabilities in training programmes has been increased from 3% to 5%, significantly enhancing access to skill development opportunities.
Employment Outcomes So Far
Providing details of past outcomes, the minister said:
- Between 2017–18 and 2024–25,
- 540 registered candidates with disabilities underwent training across various job roles
- 83 candidates secured employment
- Under the Chief Minister’s Skill Karnataka Scheme,
- 10 persons with disabilities have received skill training
- In a recent job fair held at BMS Women’s College,
- 1,200 candidates participated
- 75 candidates were provided employment, as per official data
Inclusive Growth Agenda
Dr Patil said the exclusive job fair reflects the Karnataka government’s commitment to inclusive growth, equal opportunity, and ensuring that persons with disabilities are active participants in the state’s development journey.
ಇದನ್ನೂ ಓದಿ: ವಿಕಲಚೇತನರಿಗಾಗಿ ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದಲ್ಲಿ ಮೊದಲ ಬಾರಿಗೆ ವಿಶೇಷ ಉದ್ಯೋಗ ಮೇಳ: ಡಾ. ಶರಣಪ್ರಕಾಶ್ ಪಾಟೀಲ್
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