Mirziyoyev approves social support measures for vulnerable groups

Uzbekistan plans to introduce tax incentives for light industry enterprises that employ people with disabilities. This initiative was outlined during a presentation to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on April 29, focusing on measures to support low-income families, increase employment for persons with disabilities, and expand social services.

The presentation emphasized the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting vulnerable populations through both material and moral assistance. Under the “From Poverty to Prosperity” program, families in need receive aid in the fields of employment, education, and healthcare.

Officials noted that addressing poverty is a wide-reaching and continuous process requiring constant refinement. One proposal is to classify poor families into three categories based on socio-economic status to enable more targeted assistance.

More than 100 types of social services, benefits, and forms of support will be offered to families in need. The criteria for inclusion in the “Register of Poor Families” will be formalized through legislative action. Each family will receive an individualized plan to lift them out of poverty, with tailored assistance and employment services. Barriers to employment will be addressed to help families generate sustainable income.

As part of these efforts, children from low-income families will be exempt from paying fees for extended day school programs. Those who graduate with high marks will receive free access to summer camps, and outstanding students will be eligible for a scholarship double the standard basic amount.

The presentation also included detailed plans for increasing employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Measures include tax breaks for light industry enterprises that hire disabled individuals, a reduced social tax rate for these employees, and subsidies of up to 500 million sums from the State Fund for Social Protection for entrepreneurs supporting inclusive employment.

To further promote inclusion, the volume of goods and services procured through electronic trading platforms for people with disabilities will be increased. Technical schools will establish inclusive education programs aimed at equipping individuals with disabilities with vocational skills.

The “Step to an Active Life” program will also be launched to expand the scope of social services for people requiring care. The initiative will provide medical and social support such as day care or home care, household assistance, motor rehabilitation, and disease prevention.

President Mirziyoyev approved the proposed measures and instructed relevant agencies to ensure their systematic implementation and continuous monitoring.