Photo Courtesy: nagalandpost
Kohima: State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Tongpang L. Jamir demanded a shift toward a rights-based framework for citizens with disabilities in Nagaland. He spoke at the third foundation anniversary of Blessed Bonding, an NGO serving children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The event took place Monday at the LG Hall of the Christian Institute of Health Sciences and Research in Dimapur. It carried the theme: Inclusion Today, Brighter Tomorrow.
Jamir praised the organization for three years of advocacy. He warned parents against the trap of overprotection. Independence requires daily living skills and communication training. The commissioner stated: "Inclusion is not an act of charity; it is a matter of rights, dignity and belonging." He noted that true inclusion requires society to move past mere welfare, ensuring every individual functions as an equal participant.
The State Commission for Persons with Disabilities currently pursues several operational goals. They are linking eligible individuals to the HITARTH and Niramaya Health Insurance schemes. Commission staff are also coordinating with the Department of Census Operations to improve data collection accuracy. Partnerships with the SELCO Foundation aim to secure corporate funding for disability initiatives. Furthermore, the commission plans to launch district-level awareness campaigns across the state.
The office is working with the North East Zone Cultural Centre to create a performance stage for talented individuals. Medical assessment camps are also in development alongside the Nagaland State Legal Services Authority. These camps will assist citizens in obtaining disability certificates and Unique Disability ID registration. A future workshop on the Divyang SARTHI program will train educators and parent organizations. Akahoto Jimo chaired the anniversary program, which featured performances by Nyailih and Chabou Mepfhuo.
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