KOHIMA — Recognising the resilience, achievements and contributions of people with disabilities worldwide, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Saturday called for inclusivity, breaking down barriers and empowering every individual to thrive.
The CM was addressing the ‘Disability Pride Fair 2023’ organised by Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, to commemorate International Day of Persons with Disabilities, at Bamboo Hall, Kisama Heritage village.
It is the duty of the government and people blessed with good health to support and look after persons with disabilities, he said, adding that much needs to be done for the uplift of the disabled people.
He said that the state has limited resources but the government will re-evaluate the entire situation, while announcing the creation of a corpus fund of INR 1 crore from next year's budget, to be utilised as capital, to support initiatives and activities aimed at benefiting persons with disabilities, promoting inclusivity and addressing the needs and challenges faced by them.
Diethono Nakhro, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, highlighted the significant strides in the disability sector including adoption of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016, implementation of 4% job reservation, establishment of special courts and the functional operation of the Disability Commissioner's office.
While celebrating the progress made, Nakhro acknowledged the historical neglect of the disability sector, emphasising the ongoing challenges in education, employment, social security and funding for disability organisations.
Maintaining that India has over 26.8 million persons with disabilities, she sought comprehensive support from the government to address the diverse needs of this significant demographic.
Citing the World Health Organisation’s statistics on the global prevalence of disabilities, she stressed the government's crucial role in bringing about transformative change and the necessity of inclusion for meaningful development.
Dwelling on the theme ‘United in action to rescue and achieve the SDGs,’ Nakhro pointed out the urgency to meet sustainable development goals for persons with disabilities, as outlined in the UN Disability and Development Report 2023.
On the Hornbill Festival's alignment with Disability Day, she lamented the lack of an accessibility budget which has limited the festival experience for many.
Advocating accessible tourism, she urged the state to seize the economic potential of disability inclusion in tourism.
"We’re here, we’re loud, we’re disabled and proud," Nakhro encapsulated the essence of ‘Disability Pride.’
Secretary of Social Welfare, Martha R Ritse, said that the Disability Pride Fair holds immense significance for individuals with disabilities, their families and the wider community.
She affirmed that it sends a strong message of solidarity, acceptance and the shared belief that everyone has a valuable role to play in building a more inclusive society.
Beyond commemorating the disability day, the Disability Pride Fair aims at fostering understanding between disabled and non-disabled communities, showcasing products, games, performances and services.