PM grants assistance to physically challenged Rani

New Delhi, June 5 (UNI) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has granted assistance to physically challenged Rani Verma of Varanasi who used her feet to write the matriculation examination.

Rani, who hails from Dallipur Village, Badagaav, Varanasi, had lost both her hands in an accident when she was studying in the fifth standard. Despite the severe handicap Rani continued her education and the 14-year-old has appeared in the matriculation exam using her feet to write the exams.

Moved by her courage and determination to beat all odds and continue with her studies, Dr Singh sanctioned Rs one lakh from the Prime Minister's Discretionary Fund as financial assistance to her.

The amount would be deposited as a fixed deposit in the name of her father Ramesh Chandra Verma and the monthly interest may be withdrawn for the educational expenses of Rani. The principal amount of rupees one lakh will be given to Rani on her attaining 18 years of age.

UNI