GUWAHATI, Feb 8 � Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has said persons with disabilities are assets and not liabilities, adding that if proper opportunities are given, persons with disabilities can also contribute to the development of society in several ways.
Speaking as the chief guest at the valedictory function of a three-day seminar, �Capacity Building of Rehabilitation Professionals for Persons with Disabilities in North East� at the NEDFi House here on February 7, Gogoi said persons with disabilities have the right to live with dignity and it is the social responsibility of every individual to respect their rights. Reiterating his commitment in bringing the persons with disabilities to the mainstream development of society, the Chief Minister said his government is working on a number of issues to facilitate their all-round development. He also informed that he would instruct appropriate authorities to introduce courses for rehabilitation professionals in colleges and universities to promote research in rehabilitation.
Gogoi said there is a need for formulating and implementing more government policies and schemes for persons with disabilities to bolster inclusive growth. He also called for a symbiotic approach of all stakeholders in building capacities of the rehabilitation professionals to empower persons with disabilities.
Earlier, Chairperson of the Rehabilitation Council of India Prof Sudesh Mukhopadhyay gave a brief overview of the seminar. Executive director of Sishu Sarothi Arman Ali, while citing the recommendations of the seminar, said that around 70 per cent of the total disabled persons of the North-east are from Assam and so the State ought to pay special attention to persons with disabilities. Moreover, since there is a dearth of professionals for persons with disabilities, colleges and universities should introduce courses on disabilities.
