International Day of Persons With Disabilities 2024 celebrations highlight crucial need to empower PwDs
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, December 03 2024: As observed across the globe, the International Day of Persons With Disabilities 2024 was celebrated in the State today to promote the rights and well-being of PwDs at every level of society.

Under the theme of "Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future", the Social Welfare Department in collaboration with Composite Regional Centre for Skill Development, Rehabilitation and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (CRCSRE) Imphal organised the observance ceremony at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen.

Speaking on the occasion, Ngangom Uttam, Director, Social Welfare Department asserted that there is nothing human beings cannot accomplish with resolute will and determination.

The Social Welfare Department will publish stories of successful PwDs to provide inspiration to the people, he added.

On the occasion, blankets, wheelchairs, hearing aids, smart phones and other items were distributed to 850 PwDs.

W Birahari, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities and other notable officials were also present at the event.

Additionally, the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal also observed the day which emphasizes the importance of creating an accessible and inclusive society for all individuals, regardless of their physical or mental challenges.

The program was graced by Professor G Sunil Kumar Sharma, Director, RIMS, Imphal; Dr M Rameswar Singh, Medical Superintendent (i/c), RIMS Hospital, Imphal; Professor Brogen Singh Akoijam, Dean (Academic), RIMS, Imphal and Professor L Nilachandra Singh, Head of the Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Department, RIMS, Imphal.

In his address, Professor G Sunil Kumar Sharma highlighted the importance of making healthcare services more accessible to people with disabilities.

He also called for greater efforts to integrate them into mainstream society through improved policies, infrastructure, and awareness.

The event aimed to support people with disabilities, whether they have mobility, hearing, or vision impairments.

During the observance, songs were performed by persons with disabilities and prizes and gifts were also distributed to the disabled persons.

The program saw active participation from the Deputy Director (Admin), RIMS, Imphal, the SubDean, the Principal of the College of Nursing, the Chief Accounts Officer cum Financial Advisor, HODs, nursing officials, faculty, staff and students of RIMS.

Meanwhile, Shija Hospitals & Research Institute Pvt Ltd, Langol and the Handicapped Development (HD) Foundation, Lamdeng jointly organized the observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024 at the Shija Auditorium today.

The event began with a welcome and keynote address by Dr Laishram Bina Devi, secretary general, HD Foundation.

It featured a variety program featuring performances by children with disabilities from HD Foundation.

The event aimed to promote awareness, celebrate achievements, and emphasize the need for an inclusive society and a sustainable future.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Sachikumar Kh, Consultant Pediatrician, Shija Hospitals, emphasized the importance of early detection and intervention for children with potential special needs to ensure equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.

Dr Meesha H, Consultant Psychiatrist, Shija Hospitals, highlighted the critical need to address the stigma that adversely impacts the mental health of individuals with disabilities.

Dr Palin Khundongbam, Chairman and Managing Director of Shija Hospitals, reaffirmed the hospital's commitment to fostering inclusivity, enabling leadership opportunities, and providing support for persons with disabilities, stressing the responsibility to assist those suffering in silence through Shija Hospitals and the Shija Foundation.

Dr Sapam Jasowanta Singh, Chairman, HD Foundation, underscored the significance of collaborative efforts in breaking barriers and promoting inclusivity.

The program concluded with the recognition of outstanding students with disabilities who excelled in the Class X and XII examinations, supported by the Advocate Leishangthem Roshmani Memorial Trust, Imphal.

Lastly, Takhellambam Premkumar, Deputy Manager of Business Development at Shija Hospitals proposed the vote of thanks.

Comment