Una, July 20: The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment has invited applications for the State Awards for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities for the year 2026-27. Aimed at encouraging the social and economic empowerment of persons with disabilities, these awards are presented annually on December 3, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
District Welfare Officer Awas Pandit stated that the award scheme aims to honor employers who provide employment opportunities to persons with disabilities, outstanding employees with disabilities, institutions, as well as departments and districts that have made significant contributions to the welfare of persons with disabilities. He noted that this initiative would foster a positive attitude in society towards persons with disabilities and encourage efforts to provide them with opportunities for self-reliance and a dignified life.
He explained that the awards would recognize outstanding employers from government departments, public sector undertakings, autonomous bodies, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations. Additionally, outstanding employees with disabilities working in government, corporate, and private sectors; departments and institutions performing exemplary work for the welfare of persons with disabilities; and districts making significant contributions in this field will be honored at the state level.
He mentioned that selected awardees across various categories would receive a cash prize of ?30,000 for the first prize and ?20,000 for the second prize, along with a citation and a memento.
The District Welfare Officer stated that detailed information regarding the award scheme and application forms are available on the department's website, www.esomsa.hp.gov.in. Interested departments, institutions, organizations, and eligible candidates can submit their nominations in the prescribed format to the Directorate of Social Justice and Empowerment by July 31.