Dimapur, September 9 (MExN): In order to arrive at an accurate census for people with disabilities (PWD) in Nagaland, Director of Census Operations in Nagaland Hekali Zhimomi today called for closer partnership between the department and non-government organisations (NGO) working for the disabled in the State.
Speaking at an orientation programme on ‘Census and Disability 2011’ organised by Prodigals’ Home in Dimapur, Zhimomi pointed out that correct data of PWDs is required to ensure specific needs are addressed at all levels of policy making. She said as per the 2001 Census, there are 26,500; which may be under reported. Zhimomi said that unless accurate data is produced, the needs of PWDs cannot be met.
Giving a brief account on census for the disabled in the country, Zhimomi informed that data collection in the past was very limited and the results were unsatisfying. She said the question of disability in the census was only reintroduced in 2001 which recorded a negligible 2.1 % of PWDs in the entire country. She pointed out that the department has faced various impediments in producing accurate data due to several factors like the mindset of people towards disability, the tendency to withhold information, etc. She, therefore, urged the support of NGOs to sensitize the society on the issue of disability particularly in the rural areas.
In the context of Nagaland, Zhimomi said that as per the 2001 Census, the district of Tuensang recorded the highest number of people with PWDs. However, she felt the numbers are not accurate as the entire 2001 Census itself is flawed. She also said that the previous census indicates a very low rate of literacy, gender bias and low economic status of disabled people. She underscored the importance of an accurate data in order to have an inclusive planning that meets the needs of every section of society; and to ensure facilities and opportunities are made available to those who need them.
Zhimomi further said that the department is doing everything to ensure all PWDs are included in the census. She said the objective of the department is to have accurate coverage of all types of disabilities in the state. She said though the department is grappling with the issue of sensitizing enumerators, it will ensure that enumerators are trained to approach disabled persons with sensitivity. She added that a separate schedule and special module has been introduced in the 2011 census for PWDs and master trainers will impart training to the enumerators.
Director, Prodigals’ Home K Ela gave a presentation on the types of disability and approaches. Suggestions and queries from different participating NGOs in the state were also discussed. NGOs in Nagaland working with disabled persons have not been able to identify the exact number of PWDs in the state due to inaccurate census data. The problem is compounded due to mindset of people and stigma attached to disability.
The seminar was an initiative to address the impeding issue.
