International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025 carrying the theme “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress,” was observed today the 3rd December, 2025 at a programme held at the Community Hall of Moopala Village, East Jaintia Hills District.
Organized by the Ephatha Society, Khliehriat, the programmewas graced by Sutnga- Saipung MLA, & Chairperson, Assembly Committee on Women Empowerment,Smti. Santa Mary Shylla in the presence of Deputy Commissioner, East Jaintia Hills District, Shri Shivansh Awasthi, IAS, Rymbai Khliehriat MDC, Smti. Violet Lyngdoh, President of Ephatha Society, East Jaintia Hills District, Shri Emlangmi Sapuh, traditional heads of Moopala Village, community members and many others.
In her address,Sutnga- Saipung MLA &Chairperson, Assembly Committee on Women Empowerment extended her greetings on the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities and expressed her appreciation for the efforts of Ephatha Society in empowering individuals with disabilities and highlighted the discrimination often faced by Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and urged community members to eradicate such practices,emphasizing the importance of inclusive support and mutual respect even as she encouraged parents and community members to motivate Person with Disabilities (PWDs) to pursue their respective talents and interests.
Further, during the occasion, Smti. Shylla announced a financial contribution of Rs. 5 Lakh to Ephatha Society for establishment of an Integrated Farming Centre and an additional amount of Rs. 3 lakhs for supporting Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). She also commendedEphatha Society’s role in providing livelihood training and enabling individuals with different abilities to become self-reliant and also encouraged parents to embrace their children with disabilities with equal love and to nurture their aspirations.
Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner, East Jaintia Hills District, Shri Shivansh Awasthi, IAS, in his address during the programme emphasized the District Administration’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) have equitable access to all government schemes and developmental opportunities. He also pointed that over the past six months, the District Administration has made concerted efforts to extend support through various schemes, including the Chief Minister’s Youth Development Scheme (CMYDS), District Mineral Foundation (DMF) Scheme initiatives and district level sports promotion programmes, creation of additional infrastructure for welfare and empowerment of sports persons, etc.
Shri Awasthi further stated that the intent of the Government and District Administration is not to provide assistance in isolation but to ensure that Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) enjoy full access to every entitlement available to any citizen.
Furthermore, he also acknowledged the significant role played by Ephatha Society, appreciating its consistent cooperation with the District Administration and called for greater awareness of various welfare schemes of the Government of India at the block level so that all eligible individuals will be aware of such opportunities.
Earlier, Rymbai Khliehriat MDC, Smti. Violet Lyngdoh in her speech commended the joint efforts of Ephatha Society and the District Administration, East Jaintia Hills District in empowering Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) even as she expressed hope that the society continues its dedicated services for the welfare of the district and reiterated the importance of eliminating negative perceptions surrounding disabilities.
As part of the programme, all dignitaries led by Sutnga- Saipung MLA &Chairperson, Assembly Committee on Women Empowerment jointly distributed assistive devices and mobility aids to persons with special abilities from eight identified villages funded through the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) Scheme.
Items distributed to persons with special abilities during the programme including 1 Two-Wheeler Handicapped-Friendly Mobility Vehicle, 5 Wheelchairs, 5 pairs of Auxiliary Crutches, 5 pairs of Elbow Crutches and 65 pieces of Blankets to 78 Persons with Disabilities with the aim to promote inclusion, enhance mobility and improve the quality of life of persons with disabilities in the region.
In another event to mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), a meaningful programme was organized by the Office of the District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO), East Jaintia Hills District at Latryke Community Hall, East Jaintia Hills District under the theme “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress.” The event witnessed the participation of government officials, community leaders, teachers, health care workers, women groups, youth representatives, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and students.
President, Square Society &Director, Salansar Learning Centre, Shri K. Siangshai, a respected Person with Disability (PWD) graced the occasion as the Chief Guest in the presence of District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO), East Jaintia Hills District Smti. R. Bareh, Assistant Legal Aid Defence Counsel, DLSA, East Jaintia Hills District, Shri W.D. Sympli, traditional heads and people of the area.
In her introductory address, District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO), East Jaintia Hills District, Smti. R. Bareh highlighted the fundamental rights of children and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), especially in the area of education. She stressed that inclusive education ensures no child is denied schooling and reminded parents that they may file a formal complaint if any student with disability is refused admission or faces discrimination.
She also informed the gathering that students who cannot write their examinations independently may opt for oral examinations, and for board examinations, parents may apply for a scribe through the office. She further assured that extra time is provided to children with disabilities during examinations.
Encouraging parents not to underestimate their children, Smti. Bareh urged them to support their education and motivate them to pursue skill-based training such as computer courses and other vocational programmes, reminding everyone that every child has potential and should never lose hope.
Speaking on the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), Shri W. D Sympli, Assistant Legal Aid Defence Counsel, DLSA, East Jaintia Hills District highlighted key provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016, informing the gathering that the Act consists of 17 chapters and 102 sections, each clearly outlining and protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities. He explained that the law safeguards citizens from discrimination, guarantees their right to vote and participate fully in society, ensures the right to education and secures equal opportunities in employment, including a 4% reservation in jobs. Shri Sympli stressed on Section 15, which upholds equality and protection against discrimination, citing the example of renowned scientist, Stephen Hawking to demonstrate how PWDs can achieve exceptional success.
He further noted that in cases of abuse, assault or rape involving PWDs, the Act provides for special courts and dedicated public prosecutors to ensure timely justice. Encouraging individuals not to hesitate in seeking help, Shri Sympli urged PWDs and their families to approach the court and claim their lawful entitlements whenever they face hardships. He concluded by reminding the gathering that Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) possess the same rights, dignity and opportunities as every other citizen and must be treated with respect and fairness at all times.
In his inspiring address as Chief Guest, President, Square Society &Director, Salansar Learning Centre, Shri K. Siangshaiemphasized the need to build an inclusive society that values every individual. He shared that his organization was founded to support Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and children who have lost their parents; driven by his belief in quality, equality and compassion.
Speaking from personal experience, Shri Siangshai encouraged parents not to lose hope, reminding them that having a child with a disability is not a reason to give up but to provide even greater support, as challenges can become opportunities with the right mindset. He reflected on how he once faced exclusion but is now appreciated and sought after in the community, which he described as a blessing.
Grateful to serve as Chief Guest for the second time at a Social Welfare Department Programme, he said the department feels like home to him. As a PWD himself, he urged parents to continue motivating their children and to believe in their potential, assuring them that with encouragement and opportunity, every child can grow and succeed.
