Dimapur celebrated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on 3rd December 2024 at IMC Hall, Fellowship Colony, under the theme “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disability for an Inclusive & Sustainable Future.” The event was organized by the District Level Committee for Persons with Disabilities Dimapur and Exodus Disabled People’s Organization, in collaboration with various organizations and government departments.
Justice Songkhupchung Serto, Chairperson of the Nagaland State Human Rights Commission, attended as the special guest. In his address, Justice Serto emphasized the importance of empowering persons with disabilities (PwDs) and fostering inclusivity through leadership opportunities. He highlighted the collective responsibility of society to ensure accessibility and equal opportunities for all individuals. He encouraged the gathering to focus on individual abilities, be resilient, and strive for independence. He urged parents, society, and the government to be more inclusive and supportive, sharing examples of inspirational figures like Stephen Hawking, Arunima Sinha and Hokato Hotozhe Sema, who won bronze medal during the paralympic games 2024.
The program, led by Initoli Zhimo, Vice President of the Nagaland Association for the Blind, began with an invocation by Puilinbou, Missionary to the Blind, and a welcome address by Abdu Saleem TK, Rehabilitation Officer of the National Career Service Centre for Differently Abled (NCSCDA), Dimapur.
A key highlight was the distribution of assistive devices under the Pradhan Mantri Divyangjan Kendra (PMDK) initiative. Beneficiaries received aids and appliances aimed at enhancing their mobility and independence.
Representatives of various organizations shared their thoughts during the event. Villo Naleo of Blessed Bonding spoke about the importance of amplifying the voices of parents and raising awareness about inclusivity in society and churches. Rongsen Jamir, President of Exodus Disabled People Organization, discussed initiatives like issuing ID cards and providing training to make PwDs employable, and he appealed for greater accessibility. Itwapungbe, a member of the Nagaland State Disability Forum, shared his personal journey and the challenges PwDs face in public spaces. He emphasized the need for dignity, equality, and better infrastructure for accessibility.
Shikato Zhimo from the District Welfare Office provided information about government welfare schemes, including scholarships and pensions for PwDs. Nsungbeni Kinghen, Block Project Manager under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission, highlighted livelihood support programs, sensitization efforts, and startup funding provided to PwDs. Sangto Longchar from the Dimapur District Legal Services Authority spoke about the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, ensuring dignity, non-discrimination, and equal opportunities.
The program also featured special performances by children from Angel Home Dimapur, athletes from Special Olympics Nagaland, and students from Christian Higher Secondary School.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Inaholi Zhimo of the Nagaland State Disability Forum and a benediction by Sr. Anna from Angel Home Dimapur. The event was a collaborative effort involving ALIMCO, NCSCDA Dimapur, Angel Home Dimapur, Social Welfare Department, Blessed Bonding, Prodigals’ Home, Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission, DDRC Dimapur, DDLSA, and other stakeholders.
(I.Tiakumla. Ao, IA Dimapur)
