The District Administration Bandipora in collaboration with District Disability Rehabilitation Centre Bandipora, Department of Education, Social Welfare Department Bandipora, HOPE Disability centre on Saturday organised a programme to celebrate ‘International Day of persons with Disabilities-2023’ at Mini Secretariat Bandipora.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora, Dr. Owais Ahmed was chief guest on the occasion while Additional District Development Commissioner Bandipora, Mohammad Ashraf Hakak, was also present. The theme of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, this year, was ‘United in action to rescue & achieve the SDGs for, with and by persons with disabilities’.
Speaking on the occasion, the DC said that this day is observed to highlight issues that affect people with disabilities and to work for their well-being, dignity, and rights. He said ‘International Day of Persons with Disabilities’ is celebrated to encourage increased assimilation of persons with disabilities in the socio-political, economic, and cultural aspects of life.
He said this day widens our outlook and promotes the understanding of the concept of disability and mobilizes local, national, and international support for the rights, dignity, and well-being of persons with disabilities. He stressed on appropriately addressing the needs of people arising due to the disability.
The DC said it is our moral responsibility to support persons with disabilities and realize their full potential within the society. Stressing on the education of persons with disabilities, Dr. Owais said education is the single greatest tool for achieving social justice and equality and urged all concerned to take concrete steps to educate the children with disabilities.
He stressed on creating a genuine space for persons with disabilities in accordance with their special needs and asked the department of Social Welfare, Health and Education to work with extra zeal in order to create a friendly environment for persons with disabilities. On the occasion, students from Inclusive Education Wing displayed mesmerizing cultural programs.
Later, wheel chairs, hearing aids, and prosthetic devices besides certificates and mementos were distributed among specially abled persons. The program was attended by the President of J&K handicapped association Bandipora Nazir Ahmad Lone, CEO Bandipora, CMO Bandipora, local citizens, specially-abled persons and other concerned.