DIMAPUR — A publicity, awareness and enrollment drive on Unique Disability ID (UDID) was conducted at the VDB Hall, Zunheboto town, on November 9.
The event was organised to raise awareness about the Unique Disability ID and facilitate the enrollment of individuals with disabilities in the district, an update stated.
A series of resource persons focused on empowering persons with disabilities through information about government schemes and services available to them.
Dr. Josea Sema, ENT specialist at Hezukhu Memorial District Hospital, shed light on the medical aspects of the UDID programme, stating that, according to the 2011 Indian Census, 20% of the population has some form of disability. He underscored the importance of the UDID as a tool for accessing essential welfare schemes for individuals with disabilities.
Esther H. Yepthomi, retainer lawyer, Zunheboto District Legal Services Authority, discussed the legal rights and protections for individuals with disabilities under the Disability Act of 1995. She emphasised the importance of the Act in promoting equality, preventing discrimination, and fostering an inclusive society for people with disabilities.
Akihoto K, state coordinator for UDID, provided an in-depth presentation on the objectives, benefits, and enrollment process of the UDID scheme. He explained that the UDID is a digital identification system launched by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities to ensure that every person with a disability in the country receives a unique identity. This system simplifies access to various government services and schemes, making it easier for individuals to benefit from them, he said.
“The UDID drive in Zunheboto marks an important step in creating a more inclusive and accessible environment for persons with disabilities, and it was hoped that the event would encourage more individuals to enroll and take full advantage of the opportunities available to them through the UDID system,” thr update stated.
Earlier in his welcome address, Y Tauhong Ngonyen, district welfare officer, Zunheboto, highlighted the significance of the UDID initiative in supporting and empowering people with disabilities. He emphasised the need for greater participation and enrollment in the programme to ensure that every individual with a disability has access to government resources and welfare schemes.
The programme, chaired by H Sasuli Sumi, welfare inspector, began with an invocation by Aboli Aye, associate pastor of women.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Innoto K Achumi, senior supervisor, who expressed his gratitude to all the dignitaries, speakers, participants, and organizers for their contribution to the success of the event.
Nupato Zhimo, assistant youth leader at ZTSBC, pronounced benediction.