China is expected to launch a sample survey on the situation of
the handicapped from April 1, the second of its kind since
1987.
"The survey will provide crucial references for the Communist
Party of China (CPC) and the Chinese government to make decisions
on affairs concerning handicapped people," said Vice Premier Hui
Liangyu at a meeting held in Beijing Friday.
In building a harmonious society, a drive going on in China, he
noted, it is necessary to extend more care to the handicapped
people so that they could benefit more from economic and social
progress.
He inspired the governments at all levels and various
departments to attach a high-degree of importance to the survey and
ensure it is carried out smoothly and satisfactorily.
According to Hui, who is also a member of the Political Bureau
of the CPC Central Committee, the survey is aimed at finding the
size and structure of the handicapped population, their ability to
participate in social activities, their demands, factors that made
them handicapped and rehabilitation services they are
receiving.
The survey is scheduled to be completed in 2007.
The first sample survey conducted in 1987 indicated that there
were 51.64 million handicapped people throughout China.
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(Xinhua News Agency February 18, 2006)