TURA: A two-day regional parents meet was inaugurated on Saturday at SMELC Conference Hall, Dakopgre here which was graced by Uttam K Sangma, Retired Secretary, DONER, Government of India as the Chief Guest.
The programme was organised by National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disability (NIEPID), Secunderabad in collaboration with PARIVAR (National Confederation of Parents Organisation) and Meghalaya Parents Association for Disabled which hosted by Mother’s Union, Tura and co-sponsored by Government of Meghalaya.
It may be mentioned that the meet primarily focused on the interest of PWIDDs (Persons with Intellectual Development Disabilities) and their parents and family members of PWIDDs who are most neglected community in the society.
Speaking on the occasion as Chief Guest Uttam Sangma informed about the Disability Act and also mentioned about the 3 per cent reservation policy of the government for persons with disabilities stating that 40 per cent disabled were eligible to obtain this certificate. Expressing his appreciation for the immense contribution of members of Mothers Union towards the betterment of PWDs he said that this would provide the right forum to make this movement forward.
While delivering the keynote address, Dr Srirang N Bijur, President PARIVAR stated that this meet aims to empower parents with knowledge with regard to behaviour management of their children with special needs and also to inform about the Rights and Privileges provided to PWDs by the government.
President, Mothers Union, Balsa B Sangma in her speech thanked the founders of Mothers Union and those who have kept it alive and active with their hard work and dedication till today. She further informed that this Meet coincided with the Platinum Jubilee celebrations of the Union and that they have started the celebration organising different programmes since June this year and is concluding it with the cause for special children in the region.
The Chief Guest distributed the TLM Kit under AIDP Scheme to the PWIDDs and Anganwadi workers engaged in the service of PWIDDs during the programme. Earlier in the function, the Chief Guest also released the Souvenir brought out to commemorate the Platinum Jubilee celebration of the Union.