JOWAI/TURA: The office of the District Social Welfare Officer, West Jaintia Hills District, Jowai, celebrated International Day for Persons with Disabilities on Tuesday at Recreation Centre, Nongtalang village, Amlarem Sub-Division under the theme “Empowering Persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusive and equality.” Education Minister, Lahkmen Rymbui was the chief guest.
Speaking on the occasion, Rymbui said this day is celebrated to make the differently abled persons aware that they too are a part of the society and they have a role to play. He encouraged the parents and persons with disabilities not to lose hope but instead focus on the strength and talent they are capable of and to move ahead in life along with others.
As a society we need to treat the disabled persons as normal individuals, support and understand them, he said.
While the District Social Welfare Officer, J Synnah informed about the schemes and scholarships available for those who wish to pursue studies right from nursery till BA. Forms are available during the month of April –May and can collect it form from the Social Welfare office, Jowai by producing the disability certificate.
Meanwhile, the District Legal Service Authority, West Jaintia Hills also observed World Disability Day on Monday at Nangbah village.
DLSA Secretary DS Marbaniang who chaired the programme spoke about the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and also reminded the gathering that persons with disabilities should not be stigmatized or be discriminated instead support them in order to improve their self esteem, well being and rights in the society.
In Tura, the people of South West Garo Hills also celebrated International Day for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) which was organised by the District Social Welfare Office in collaboration with the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) at Okkapara Community Field under Rerapara C&RD Block on Tuesday.
Distribution of aids & appliances to the assessed PWDs, sports & games and presentation of gifts and mementos to PWDs marked the day-long celebration.
In Baghmara, the occasion was observed on Monday at Government Higher Secondary School Playground Baghmara where a large number of people attended.
Deputy Commissioner H B Marak in his address to the gathering said the occasion aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilise support to the dignity, rights and well being of persons with disabilities.
