Department of Information & Public Releations (DIC) Pulwama in collaboration with District Social Welfare Officer Pulwama and Hope Disability Centre today organised a function to observe ‘World Disability Day.’District Development Commissioner Pulwama Dr Raghav Langer was the chief guest on the occasion.Addressing the gathering, the DDC said that Persons With Disability are integral part of our society and we must strive to empower them for inclusive, equitable and sustainable development. He assured that all the demands raised by Handicapped Association will be redressed on priority. He further said that ramps are being constructed at various places for easy access of the Physically Challenged Persons in the district.While deliberating upon the Mental Disability and its challenges, Dr Majid Shafi Consultant, Neurophychatrist added that mindset and behavioural practices towards Mentally Disabled Persons need to be changed to break the stereotypes. He said that Mental Disorders including Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Reading Disorders and Addictive behaviours is a challenge which need to be tackled professionally.The Executive Director HOPE Disability centre highlighted the issues and problems faced by Disabled Persons. He said a complete Rehabilitation Centre will be setup in Pulwama to facilitate the physically challenged persons.
Tehsil Social Welfare Officer informed the gathering about the welfare schemes for the Specially disabled Persons rolled out by the Government.On the occasion, DDC distributed Wheel Chairs, hearing Aids and other prosthetic aids among disabled persons provided by Social Welfare Department and HOPE Disability Centre.J&K handicapped Association presented a memorandum to DDC regarding their demands.Earlier, Artists of Cultural Wing, DIPR presented a Skit and Song before the audience.Besides Additional Deputy Commissioner and other District officers were present on the occasion.