State observes Day of PwDs
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, December 03 2023: As elsewhere, International Day of Persons with Disabilities was also observed by Social Welfare Department at Maharaj Chandrakirti auditorium, Palace Compound, here, on Sunday.

The observance was attended by Social Welfare minister Heikham Dingo Singh as chief guest and commissioner Ningthoujam Geoffrey as president while Lamlai MLA and Handloom and Handicrafts chairman Khongbantabam Ibomcha Singh, Manipur Pol lution Control Board chairman/Wabagai MLA Dr Usham Deben and Patsoi MLA Sapam Kunjakishore were present as guests of honour.

Speaking on the occasion, minister H Dingo applauded the play on 'Maharaj Kulachandra', performed by differently-abled artistes as part of the observance.

He then remarked that in comparison with other states, Manipur has been effectively implementing schemes or projects related to welfare of PwDs.

He also informed that a proposal has been made for developing a basketball ground for PwDs at Khuman Lampak sports complex.

In his speech, Ningthoujam Geoffrey said that the new PwDs Act would be examined minutely to ascertain what changes could be made for their welfare.

Social Welfare director Ng Uttam also appreciated the play/drama, 'Meihum Morok' presented on the occasion.

The drama is directed by renowned artiste, L Tonthoi and is based on Maharaj Kulachandra's exile to Andaman & Nicobar Islands, he said, while expressing that the play would help instil patriotic spirit amongst the youngsters.

Handicap Developed Foundation, Manipur in association with The National Trust and Advocate Leishangthem Roshmani Memorial Trust also observed the day along with the 4th death anniversary of advocate Leishangthem Roshmani at the hall of Old Assembly here on Sunday.

Presided over by Foundation president Dr Sapam Jasobanta, the observance was attended by High Court of Manipur Justice Aribam Guneshwar as chief guest and Special Olympic Bharat, Manipur director Th Saratkumar as guest of honour.

In his speech, Dr Jasobanta cited the WHO report that there are around 1.3 billion PwDs in the world, which is around 15 per cent of the world's total population.

Despite the various physical, social and economic challenges, PwDs have the right to live independently and with dignity, he asserted.

As part of the observance, song and dance performances were presented by different -ly-abled children, followed by distribution of meritorious award and assistive devices.

Meanwhile, Relief Centre for the Welfare of Differently Abled Person, Manipur observed International Day of Persons with Disabilities, 2023 on the theme of "United in action to rescue and achieve the SDGs for, with and by persons with disabilities", at its branch office, Tera Wangthonbi Leikai on Sunday.

During the observance, Soibam Birla Devi, who won the competition (Handicraft trade) organised by JHOOM International Silage, was honoured.

Other differently abled persons were also felicitated with simple gifts on the occasion.

The observance was attended by Manipur State Commission for Women (MSCW) member Chuongsin Koireng, national awardee L Amarendra Sharma and Relief Centre media advisor Nimol Ningombam as presidium members.

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