The State Council approved an application to set up the mechanism of joint inter-ministerial meeting on the development of the rehabilitation and assistance technology industry, according to a circular issued on Jan 25.

Submitted by the Ministry of Civil Affairs, the move is aimed at promoting the industry that manufactures devices such as artificial limbs and orthotic equipment.

The responsibility of the joint inter-ministerial meeting is to study the development of the rehabilitation and assistance technology industry and stipulate stimulating policies.

Headed by the Ministry of Civil Affairs, the meeting consists of 24 government organs, including the National Development and Reform Commission, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Science and Technology, and the China Disabled Persons’ Federation, according to the State Council.

The joint inter-ministerial meeting will be established at the Ministry of Civil Affairs, and annual meetings will be called by the head of the ministry, Huang Shuxian.