RIMS, Shija Hospitals observe World Autism Awareness Day with focus on inclusion & support
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 02 2026: The Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) and Shija Hospitals & Research Institute joined forces with partners to observe World Autism Awareness Day 2026 under the unifying theme, "Autism and Humanity- Every Life Has Value".

The events spotlighted early diagnosis, inclusive care, and societal support for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

At RIMS Imphal's Kamal Hall, hosted by the Department of Psychiatry in collaboration with the District Early Intervention Centre (DEIC), Imphal West, dignitaries including RIMS's Director Prof G Sunil Kumar Sharma, Medical Superintendent Prof N Sanjib Singh, Dean (Academics) Prof L Rajesh Singh, Psychiatry Head Prof RK Lenin Singh, and Paediatrics Head Dr Ch Shyamsunder Singh gathered to promote awareness.

Prof Sunil Kumar stressed fostering inclusion, early identification, and timely interventions, urging society to ensure dignity, equal opportunities, and comprehensive care for every child with ASD.

The institute shared that to date, a total of 35 new cases-30 boys and 5 girls- of ASD have been identified and are under regular follow-up.

Attendees interacted with children and parents, distributing toys, snacks, and stationery.

The event drew Deputy Director, Chief Accounts Officer, department heads from Paediatrics, ENT, Psychiatry, and Clinical Psychology, DEIC team members, and CMO office representatives.

Meanwhile, at Shija Hospitals' SJ Auditorium in Itocha Block, the hospital partnered with the Handicapped Development (HD) Foundation and The National Trust, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment.

At the event, Clinical Psychologist Nganthoi Tongbram delivered the keynote on empathy and enabling environments.

Dr Shantibala Koijam, Professor & Head, Department of Psychiatry, Shija Academy of Health Sciences, stressed the importance of early diagnosis and comprehensive care for improved outcomes.

Nandinibala Nongmeikapam Occupational and Behavior Therapist from Georgia, USA, demonstrated structured therapy and emphasized family involvement Th Sharatkumar Singh, Director, Special Olympics Bharat Manipur, spoke about Government systems, including the National Trust Act, and the need for greater awareness and access.

Dr Chetan Khundongbam presided over the event, highlighting the valuable contributions of individuals with autism, citing figures such as Albert Einstein, Nikola Tesla, and Elon Musk.

A dance by children with intellectual disabilities underscored their potential.

Both observances reinforced a collective push for stronger support systems, highlighting autism's value in humanity.

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