IMPHAL, Dec 5 - International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) was held under the aegis of State Social Welfare department with the theme �Inclusion matters: access and empowerment for people of all abilities� here on Thursday.
Principal Secretary, Social Welfare, SK Dev Barman speaking on the occasion said that differently able persons deserve equal rights and opportunities entitled to every person in the society.
According to 2011 census, there are a total of 54,110 persons living with disabilities in Manipur which is around two per cent of the State�s total population, informed Director Social Welfare L Nabakishwar.
He informed that the government has various welfare schemes and programmes for persons with disabilities, to avail which disability certificate is required.
The State Government has been providing student scholarships, unemployment allowances, one-time incentive awards, funds for marrying disabled person, poverty alleviation, pension schemes, etc., for the disabled.
Chairperson of Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MCPCR) S Sarat Kumar Sharma stressed the need of developing more rehabilitation programmes and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. He opined that the current 3 per cent reservation for disabled persons is insufficient.
Founder of Worldwide Peace Organisation Sagar Parashi from Delhi also joined the observation and delivered a motivational speech to his fellow disabled persons.
Newmai News adds: World Disabled Day was observed in Mizoram on Thursday.
Speaking in the programme, Mizoram Social Welfare Minister PC Lalthanliana said that the State Government has been taking steps to ensure that People With Disabilities (PWD) get their rights and privileges.
Disabled Certificate has been given to 9,578 people so far, the Minister said. He handed over hearing aid, wheelchair and other equipment to selected PWDs on the occasion. As per 2011 census, Mizoram has 15,160 PWDs.
