‘Still numerous obstacles preventing PwDs from living a full life’

Drawing competition exclusively for PwDs organised in Dimapur  

Morung Express News 
Dimapur | June 9 

The State Department of Employment, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and the National Career Service Centre for Differently Abled (NCSC-DA), Dimapur organised a drawing competition exclusively for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) at Deaf Biblical Ministry, Naharbari Dimapur on June 9. This was in line with the Government of India’s “Jan Bhagidari” event to promote people’s participation, especially among women and youths, through different platforms.

The drawing competition drew the participation of 54 children in two different categories- for the visually challenged and the hearing and orthopedically challenged.

Guest of honour for the occasion, Diethono Nakhro, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities observed that when we talk about “Jan Bhagidari” or people’s participation, it means creating an inclusive atmosphere for all irrespective of their circumstances. “It also means designing accessible infrastructure, buildings and spaces so PwDs can navigate spaces independently; and without limitation.” 

However, she stated that event to this day there were numerous barriers and obstacle which prevent PwDs from living a full and productive life. This includes having to confront with negative attitudes from the people on a daily basis. 

In Nagaland, the overall scenario in the disability sector is one of neglect, such as lack of rehabilitation and educational services, disability professionals among others.

Nevertheless, the state government has been slowly responsive to the needs of PwDs, she mentioned. With regard to sports too, parasports and paralympics committee has been constituted to promote it further in the state. “But we still have a very long way to go and so much to do, it is not only up to the government but society in general needs to create an inclusive atmosphere moving forward,” she said.     

Speeches were also delivered by Narendra Jain, Secretary, SD Jain Charitable Clinic, Moatemsu Walling, Principal of Christian Higher Secondary School, Gideon L Sumi, District Employment Officer, Dimapur and Dr T Mohan, Asst Director, NCSC-DA Dimapur. 

During the competition, visually challenged participants were assisted by volunteers who provided instructions for them. Winners of the two categories were awarded with prizes at the end of the competition. 

Deaf Biblical Ministry, Dimapur- pioneering institute for deaf people 
Providing a brief background of the special school, Christina Walling, Principal of Deaf Biblical Ministry explained that the school was established in 1987 by Rev Yanger Walling and Amongla. 

“It can be rightly said that they were the pioneers in the field of education for the deaf people in Nagaland,” she noted. The school provides language and communication skills for the students through a sign language programme. 

She also mentioned that, DBM was the first, and it continues to be the only institute in Nagaland that provides education and vocational training purely to the deaf population. It has students not only from the state, but also from across neighbouring states like Manipur, Meghalaya, Assam etc. 

“The aim of DBM is to nurture our Deaf students to become responsible and contributing members of the society by imparting quality education, vocational training and guiding them towards achieving their goals,” she added. 

At present, there were 68 students enrolled in the school and staffed by 9 employees including three deaf staffs. With the help of NCSC-DA, they also provide skill training for the students such as computer training programme and secretariat education.