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)