Benefits system for disabled to start in 2016

A new benefits system for disabled people living in poverty and those who are severely disabled and need long-term nursing will begin nationwide on Jan 1, 2016, according to a news briefing at the State Council Information Office on Friday.

"The new system was approved by the State Council Executive Meeting on Wednesday and it is so far the only special benefits system for the disabled established at the national level," said Zou Ming, vice-minister of civil affairs.

So far 27 provinces have established their own systems, either for disabled people living in poverty or those who are severely disabled, but only 13 of them offer aid to both categories, Zou said.