Districts observe International Day for Disabled Persons
NONGPOH/TURA: Together with the rest of the world, the office of the District Social Welfare Officer, Ri Bhoi, observed the International Day for Persons with Disabilities at the Byrnihat PHC conference hall on Tuesday as South West Garo Hills District Legal Services Authority in collaboration with the District Social Welfare Officer distributed aids and appliances to persons with disabilities (PwDs) during a programme organised at Gongglangre multi facility centre, South West Garo Hills.
Sosthenes Sohtun, MLA of Jirang Constituency was the chief guest along with guest of honour VA Hynniewta, EAC and senior advocate CM Adhikari and others.
Speaking on the occasion, Sosthenes Sohtun informed that both the central and state governments have taken initiatives to support the PwDs with various schemes, scholarships. He urged the parents and families of to come forward and help their children to avail the benefits of the schemes.
CM Adhikari, in his address, dwelt at length about the rights of PwDs in education, medical facilities, employment, transportation and justice. He stressed on the need to be aware of the rights, and reminded the gathering that disabled persons should not be ignored or discriminated but supported in order to enable them attain a sustainable livelihood.
S Pyrbot spoke on the importance of Unique Disability ID card to take advantage of the benefits bestowed by the government. He encouraged families of PwDs to apply for UDID card.
In South West Garo Hills, Rerapara C&RD Block Development Officer RZD Shira, as a token of concern towards the PwDs, distributed wheel chair, walking cane and hearing aid. He said that the government has undertaken measures to facilitate inclusion of PwDs in various schemes which in itself is a sign of acceptance by the society and is worth celebrating. He informed that PWDs were being issued separate job cards under MGNREGS to enable them to earn and provide for their families.
Medical & Health Officer, Ayush, Balnamchi Sangma, in her address, shed light on various detrimental practices by pregnant mothers.
Later, prizes were distributed to the winners of various special games. Woolen blankets were also distributed to the differently-abled as part of the celebration.
In Baghmara, the occasion was observed at DRDA Conference Hall, Baghmara where officers, Nokma, Sordars, and differently-abled people participated.
SA Sangma, advocate, Baghmara Court, elaborated on the issues pertaining to ensuring legal services for disabilities.
CDPO of Rongara Block, TK Marak spoke on the welfare schemes for PwDs like Uniform and Book Grant, Scholarship Grant, Unemployment Educated Allowances, Chief Minister’s Scheme and the benefits of availing loan up to Rs 6 lakh from the Meghalaya Cooperative Apex Bank.
Others who spoke included HB Marak, South Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner and MT Sangma, Project Director, DRDA and Member Secretary, DLSA Baghmara.