Mesenipong Pongen receives commendation and cash award from Governor of Karnataka.
Kohima, November 30 (MExN): The Nagaland Parents' Association for the Disabled (NAPAD) with its 13 members led by Tongpang L Jamir, vice president, PARIVAAR NCPO(National Confederation of Parents Organisation) and Kielie Nakhro, Coordinator of NAPAD as the team leader attended the 31st National Parents Conference of PARIVAAR- NCPO at Dr. Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University, Lucknow under the theme “Nurturing Leadership for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future” from November 29 to 30.
The Conference was organized in collaboration with PARIVAAR-NCPO, the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (Divyangjan), the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment , Government of India, and hosted by the Uttar Pradesh Parents Organisation for the Disabled.
The inaugural session was graced by Thawar Chand Ghelot, Governor of Karnataka and former Union Minister as the Chief Guest.
Mesenipong Pongen, a specially abled young adult, son of Bendangtoshi Pongen was awarded the Santosh Jeevani National Award, 2025 in recognition of his self advocacy for promotion of entrepreneurship, creating employment opportunities for others, fostering and motivating for the cause of specially abled groups as well as others.
He channelized his personal experiences and his entrepreneurial skills through various motivational talks in different platforms.
He also contributed his exemplary expertise and skills in creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
He received a commendation and cash award from Governor of Karnataka.
Aripong Kichu, Khaikho Sangtsoi and Wapongmeren Longkumer of the "The Special Squad " a dance group formed with the initiative of NAPAD of specially abled children has also performed a Naga cultural dance and two Bollywood dance item during the event.
