A one-day State-level workshop aimed at sensitizing stakeholders on benchmark disabilities and the identification of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) was organized by the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer, Nagaland, in partnership with the Health & Family Welfare Department and Social Welfare Department. The event took place on August 31, 2023 at Japfu Hotel, Kohima.

The workshop, part of the SVEEP initiative, focused on addressing the challenges and issues related to the identification and registration of PwDs in the electoral roll and creating awareness about benchmark disabilities in the State. It served as a platform for the three Departments to collaborate and collectively work towards ensuring inclusive and accessible elections.

The guest of honor at the event was State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Diethono Nakhro. The introductory address was delivered by CEO (O), Ruokuovituo Khezhie, with short speeches were provided by Director (Dental) DHFW, Dr. Chekroshuyi Tetseo, and Additional Secretary, Social Welfare Department, Bodeno S. Colo.

Resource Persons included Joint CEO, Awa Lorin; State Counsel, Social Welfare Department, Apila Sangtam; and Deputy Director (Nodal Officer, Disability) Health & Family Welfare Department, Dr. Nitovi Shikhu.

The program was chaired and moderated by Jt. CEO, Nagaland, Sharon Longchari, and was attended by District-level officers from the Health & Family Welfare Department and Social Welfare Department from various districts.

(DIPR)