Dilorom Yuldasheva, a trailblazing entrepreneur from Denov and one of the world’s “Top 100 Most Inspiring Women,” was honored with the Order of “Mardlik” at a meeting chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Despite her disability, Yuldasheva established a sewing enterprise employing 40 women from low-income families, earning her recognition as a symbol of resilience and leadership.
“It is worth being proud of such strong-willed and courageous people as an example to everyone,” said President Mirziyoyev, emphasizing the importance of highlighting similar stories to inspire others. As part of this initiative, the president called for the production of at least five motivational documentaries and feature films next year to showcase such achievements.
Tackling Rising Disability Rates
The meeting also addressed the growing challenges in disability rehabilitation. Since the beginning of the year, the number of people with disabilities has increased by 10% in regions such as Jizzakh, Kashkadarya, Navoi, Syrdarya, and Surkhandarya, with rates exceeding 12% in 20 districts. President Mirziyoyev criticized the lack of proactive measures by regional governors, noting that rehabilitation coverage in 33 districts remains below 1%.
To address these challenges, the president outlined a comprehensive plan to reform rehabilitation services:
- Rehabilitation services will be introduced in every regional and district hospital.
- Occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and therapeutic gymnastics services at 12 disability rehabilitation centers will expand fivefold.
- Rehabilitation departments will be established at seven medical universities, and professors will be retrained using South Korean expertise.
- International specialists from Korea and Japan will train local experts at the Republican Rehabilitation Center.
Empowering People Through Simple Solutions
The government plans to promote home-based rehabilitation by teaching families simple exercises and distributing healthy eating plans tailored to specific disabilities. Social workers in mahallas (neighborhoods) will distribute these resources, ensuring accessibility for all. Rehabilitation progress will be evaluated based on measurable improvements in mobility, communication, and self-service, with bonuses awarded to doctors for successful outcomes.
Boosting Employment Opportunities
Entrepreneurial and employment opportunities for people with disabilities have also been prioritized.
- In 2024, 40,000 individuals with disabilities were hired through the support of newly created opportunities.
- From January 1, social tax for workers with disabilities will be reduced to 1%, incentivizing businesses to employ them.
- Companies employing people with disabilities will receive subsidies of up to UZS50 mn soums for services such as sign language interpretation, psychological support, and escorting visually impaired workers.
- Private employment companies will be eligible for grants of up to UZS500 mn for training, adapting, and supporting employees with disabilities during their first six months on the job.
Expanding Access to Prosthetics and Rehabilitation
The government also aims to significantly increase the distribution of prosthetics and rehabilitation devices.
- The current list of devices has been expanded from 18 to 30, with the total amount allocated increased by 1.5 times.
- 7 additional types of devices will be added, and 80,000 individuals will receive the necessary equipment by 2025.
Setting a National Example
The governor of Kashkadarya was tasked with creating a pilot program for comprehensive rehabilitation services, setting an example for other regions. President Mirziyoyev underscored the importance of recognizing those who demonstrate resilience and dedication, stating, “There are many who find strength within themselves, overcome difficult situations, and show heroism.”
The First Deputy Director of the National Social Protection Agency, Sh. Mirziyoeva, will oversee the coordination of these efforts to ensure impactful results.
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