Move Aims to Strengthen Disability Care and Rehabilitation Services Across the State
In a major step towards improving disability care and rehabilitation services, the Andhra Pradesh government has announced plans to establish artificial limb manufacturing centres at five government teaching hospitals across the state. Health, Medical and Family Welfare Minister Shri Satya Kumar Yadav said the facilities will be set up in Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Ongole, Tirupati and Kurnool.
Centres to Manufacture Artificial Limbs, Wheelchairs and Hearing Aids
The proposed centres will manufacture a wide range of assistive devices, including artificial limbs, wheelchairs, hearing aids and other mobility-support products. The initiative is aimed at making rehabilitation aids more accessible and affordable for persons with disabilities across Andhra Pradesh.
According to the minister, the facilities will help ensure timely availability of quality assistive devices while reducing dependence on external suppliers for prosthetic and mobility support services.
ALIMCO Teams Begin Infrastructure Assessment
Following approval from the Union government, teams from the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) started visiting the identified hospitals on Monday. The teams are assessing land availability and reviewing infrastructure requirements necessary for establishing the manufacturing units.
Officials said the inspections will help determine the resources and facilities needed for the smooth implementation of the project.
Part of Centre’s Plan to Expand Artificial Limb Manufacturing Network
Officials noted that India currently has 102 artificial limb manufacturing centres. The Union government has set a target of increasing this number to 300 centres by 2030.
Chief Minister Shri N. Chandrababu Naidu had earlier requested the Centre to establish such facilities across districts in Andhra Pradesh. Following the proposal, approval was granted for setting up centres in five key locations across the state.
Officials Review Project Implementation
Director of Secondary Health Shri K.V.N. Chakradhar Babu and Smt Surya Kumari, Secretary, Women, Child Welfare, Senior Citizens, Differently-Abled Persons and Transgender Welfare Department, reviewed the proposed centres and discussed various aspects related to their establishment.
The state government is also preparing to recruit trained personnel who will be responsible for measuring beneficiaries, manufacturing and fitting assistive devices, conducting repairs and providing after-sales support services.
Improved Access to Rehabilitation Services Expected
Once operational, the centres are expected to significantly strengthen rehabilitation services in Andhra Pradesh. The facilities will improve access to high-quality prosthetic and assistive devices while ensuring maintenance and support services for beneficiaries.
The initiative is expected to enhance the quality of life for persons with disabilities by providing affordable mobility solutions and expanding access to rehabilitation care closer to their homes.
