International Day of Persons with Disabilities observed in East Jaintia Hills

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaDecember 3, 2021

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities was observed on Friday at Holy Trinity School, Sutnga Pdengshnong, East Jaintia Hills District under the theme “Leadership and participation  of persons with disabilities towards an inclusive, accessible and sustainable post –Covid-19 World ”.

The programme was organized by the office of the District Social Welfare Officer, East Jaintia Hills District, Khliehriat.

Addressing the gathering in the programme, R Passah, District Social Welfare Officer, East Jaintia Hills District, Khliehriat said that the International Day for Persons with Disabilities is a global observance celebrated every year to promote the rights of persons with Disabilities and to raise awareness on their wellbeing. She further informed that the Social Welfare Office in the district looks after the welfare of the PWDs by extending the support and assistance through the field workers who, she mentioned, will guide the PWDs in obtaining the UDID/ Disability Certificate. She also urged the PWDs to register themselves for Aadhaar card so that they can avail the various government welfare schemes and benefits.

M War, Advocate, DLSA, Khliehriat spoke about the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, (RPwD) Act,  and she stated that the Act promotes, protects and ensures the PWDs enjoys full equality under the Law. She further elaborated on the Right to Equality and non-discrimination, Right to education, Right to protection against exploitation, violence and abuse, Reservation of government jobs for PWDs, Free Legal Aid among others rights. 

War also informed the gathering that a special Public Prosecutor has been appointed for the PWDs in the district.

A Free Medical Health check up for the PWDs was also conducted by the Office of the District Medical and Health Officer, East Jaintia Hills District, Khliehriat after the programme. Other highlights of the observation included singing competition, dancing competition, games and sports for the PWDs.

Others who are present on the occasion include WM Bamon, Manager, DRCDA, Jowai, S Phawa, Secretary, EPHPHATHA Society, E Sapuh, President, EPHPHATHA Society.