GIS – 27 March 2025: Government remains committed to ensuring greater inclusivity, fairness, and opportunities for persons with disabilities, and plans to review the current disability laws, pensions assessment criteria, and associated benefits. In that regard, the public and civil society organisations will be invited to submit their proposals to the authorities by 10 April 2025.
The Minister of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity, Mr Ashok Kumar Subron, made this announcement, today, in Port-Louis during a ceremony organised to honour Dr (Miss) Ameegah Paul, the youngest recipient of the “Member of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean” (MSK) National Day Award 2025. The Junior Minister of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity, Mr Kuvalayan Kugan Parapen, was also present.
In his address Minister Subron said that a key aspect of the review relates to the assessment criteria for the grant of disability pensions and the evaluation process conducted by the Medical Board. ‘Restrictive policies should not penalise individuals with disabilities and the current system would be revised to ensure greater fairness’, he added.
According to him, while the Protection and Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2023 has already been passed, it has yet to be officially proclaimed. Mr Subron pointed out the proposals of the public and civil society organisations on potential amendments to the existing laws by the April deadline will be examined.
Several proposed amendments were also outlined by the Minister. They comprise extending the time allotted for assessing disability claimants from five to ten minutes; reconsidering the 60% disability threshold for pension eligibility to promote inclusivity; and revising the existing assessment criteria to ensure that no person with a disability is left behind.
The Minister furthermore commended Dr Paul for her resilience and achievements particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and encouraged her to be a role model to others. He urged people suffering from disabilities to draw inspiration from her journey and lead a dignified life.
Junior Minister Parapen, for his part, underscored the importance of empowering social workers and non-governmental organisations by providing them with specialised training. This, he said, will enable them to better assist individuals with disabilities and cater to their needs more effectively.
As for Dr Ameegah Paul, she expressed gratitude to the Ministry for recognising her contributions. She attributed her success to the patience, dedication, and perseverance of her parents, highlighting that the award is not just for her, but for everyone who has played a role in her journey.
Dr Ameegah Paul was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and cardiac complications at the tender age of three. She has dedicated her life to advocating for those who are often marginalised including persons with disabilities, women and the elderly.
Today, Ms Paul stands as a young distinguished young woman, an activist, an accomplished artist, a global speaker and mentor embodying resilience and excellence. She now serves as Secretary, Event Coordinator and National Empowerment Coordinator at the Association Pour La Protection Des Droits Des Handicapés.
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