Nagaland joins call for ‘inclusive development’ S

December 4, 2022 30 Views No Comment

Morung Express News
Kohima | December 4

The International Day for Persons with Disabilities 2022 under the global theme ‘Transformative solutions for inclusive development: The role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world’ was commemorated in Kohima on December 3.

Organised by the office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, the day also held a disability fun fair and ‘Art Unlimited’ featuring the works of artists with disabilities. The event was held at the NBCC Convention Hall, New Secretariat Rd, Kohima.

Special Guest for the event, Kaisa Rio, wife of the Chief Minister, in her speech acknowledged the inherent dignity and contribution of persons with disabilities where families and communities have been enriched and inspired by their presence and lessons in accepting challenges with grace and humility.

While honouring them and their tremendous strength, resilience and skill, Kaisa reminded about the many barriers that still exist in society that impede their success and realisation of their full potential.

“It is a sad reality in many societies, including ours, persons with disabilities often face physical, social, economic and attitudinal barriers that exclude them from participating fully and effectively as equal members of the society. Stigma, discrimination, and neglect all too often mean that they experience poorer health, lower educational achievement, lower employment and labour force participation rates and higher rates of poverty than the rest of the population. Disability inclusion is therefore an essential condition to upholding human rights, sustainable development and peace and security,” stated Kaisa.

The special guest also voiced support on the progress that has been made in Nagaland and various actions that has been implemented. However, she also noted that ‘much more remains to be done and we need to keep pushing forward.’

“The commitment to realising the rights of the persons with disabilities is not only a matter of justice but an investment in a common future. As we celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disability, I call on each and every citizen to challenge the way you think about disability and help grow a more inclusive Nagaland. Let us commit to build and inclusive and just future for everyone: A future that leaves no one behind,” stated Rio.

Special performances were presented by students of Cherry Blossoms Inclusive School and Nzano Shitio. Imkongzenla, Deputy Director and Nodal Officer, Department of Social Welfare also delivered a short speech.

Dimapur: The International Day for Persons with Disabilities was celebrated in Town Hall, Dimapur, by the Exodus Federation of Disabled People’s Organization, which is a network of Differently abled persons of Dimapur district.

Dr Imlitemsu Ozukum, MD (PMR), Senior Specialist, In-Charge, District Disability Rehabilitation Centre, Dimapur was the special guests. In his address, Dr Imlitemsu challenged the PwDs “to utilise their different abilities which God had blessed them with, and achieve greater heights utilising them, instead of focussing on their disabilities.”

He advised the parents and guardians of the PwDs to encourage their ward to come forward and involve them in various activities, so that the PwDs improve in their areas of abilities. Further, fe challenged the society, especially the Church to set an example by accepting the PwDs into their fold, involving them in every activity of the society/Church, so that they gain confidence, become productive and also benefit spiritually.

The programme was chaired by Rongsen, President, Exodus Federation. The Exodus Federation gave gifts to all its members celebrating the occasion, stated a press note received here.

Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/nagaland-joins-call-for-inclusive-development