KOHIMA — State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Diethono Nakhro, said that numerous district-level committees on disability are failing to operate as mandated by the Disability Act.
Speaking at an assistive device distribution camp in Kohima on Wednesday, Nakhro stressed the need to activate these committees and ensure that they effectively carry out their responsibilities.
She said that these committees are tasked with addressing disability-related issues at the district level and to take up matters with the District Planning and Development Board for necessary action, but are currently inactive.
In this regard, Nakhro urged the Kohima district committee to take a leading role in activating these committees and ensuring they function as mandated.
Emphasising the significance of the assistive device distribution event, which marked the resumption of such initiatives in Kohima after a prolonged period, she expressed concern over the state capital not addressing the needs of persons with disabilities.
Meanwhile, she commended the district administration officers for their proactive efforts, noting their efficiency, knowledge of the disability sector, and the initiative in organising the event.
She also acknowledged that much progress has been made in the disability sector compared to the past and the improvements in government understanding and responsiveness.
Highlighting the significant financial and social burden faced by individuals with disabilities and their families, she emphasised the need for greater support from government, religious institutions and society, as well as continued collaboration between stakeholders, including persons with disabilities, government agencies, civil society organisations and tribal bodies in order to create a more inclusive and accessible environment.
She said that those who have not experienced such challenges may not comprehend the financial burden, citing the high cost of assistive devices as a major barrier for many.
Lauding initiatives like the Assistance to Persons with Disabilities for Purchase/Fitting of Aids /Appliances (ADIP) scheme and the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO), she expressed hope for more outreach programmes and financial assistance to improve access to assistive devices.
The commissioner also drew attention to accessibility in education and public spaces, urging for greater awareness and sensitisation on inclusive education and encouraged local communities to contribute towards creating accessible, disabled-friendly neighbourhoods.
Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner of Kohima, Kumar Ramnikant, informed that an assessment camp was conducted prior to the distribution event.
Stating that equality will come only when there is accessibility, he said the assessment and distribution events are ‘baby steps’ towards equality.
The DC also lauded Nakhro’s leadership in driving positive change and urged for collective efforts from all segments of society to create a truly inclusive environment.
Ramnikant stressed the importance of raising awareness about the rights of individuals with disabilities and called upon civil society and community leaders to actively contribute towards creating an accessible society for all.
A total of 55 beneficiaries received assistive devices during the camp which was organised under ADIP Scheme, by the District Level Committee on Disability in collaboration with ALIMCO at Kohima Municipal Office Complex.