Officials of the district level committee on disabilities during a meeting held at the DC’s Office in Kohima on September 24. (DIPR Photo)
Kohima, September 24 (MExN): The District Level Committee on Disabilities for Kohima held a meeting on Thursday to discuss measures for strengthening the welfare, inclusion, accessibility and empowerment of persons with disabilities (PwDs) in the district.
According to a DIPR update, the meeting was held at the office chamber of the Deputy Commissioner, Kohima, under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem, NCS, and was attended by representatives from various departments and stakeholders.
During the meeting, Buchem briefed members on measures being taken to improve accessibility at places of worship. He said discussions had already been held with some pastors and a meeting with religious leaders in Kohima would be convened soon.
He observed that many people remained unaware of accessibility requirements for PwDs and the facilities available to them. Citing the functional lift at the DC Office, he stressed the need for prominent signage to inform people about existing facilities.
The committee discussed the Unique Disability ID (UDID) and the 21 categories of disabilities, emphasising that accessibility should extend beyond the provision of ramps.
Members highlighted the importance of measures such as sign-language interpretation during major church programmes and other public events to ensure greater inclusion of PwDs.
The meeting was informed that a UDID card is required to avail various Central Government schemes and benefits. Members also discussed requirements for obtaining a UDID, including Aadhaar and a bank account.
The issuance of disability certificates, including assessment confirming 40 per cent or more disability by the designated medical authority, was also discussed.
The committee deliberated on challenges faced by persons with intellectual disabilities and suggested exploring video-conference-based medical examinations in genuine severe and exceptional cases to facilitate certification.
The meeting also discussed difficulties faced by some PwDs in accessing banks and Aadhaar centres. It was decided that, upon receipt of an application, technical officials could be deputed to their homes to facilitate the necessary services.
The committee stressed the need to prevent misuse of disability certificates, particularly in relation to employment, while ensuring that genuine beneficiaries were not deprived of their entitlements.
The Niramaya health insurance scheme was also apprised to the members, highlighting its relevance to eligible persons with disabilities.
The District Legal Services Authority was noted as a resource to assist PwDs in obtaining necessary documents, other than disability medical certification.
Accessibility in public transportation was another key issue discussed. Members suggested measures involving Nagaland State Transport (NST) and city bus services, including designated seats and concessions for PwDs, to facilitate safer and more accessible public transport.
The Deputy Commissioner assured the members of all possible support within the capacity of the district administration towards improving accessibility and services for persons with disabilities.
.jpg)
