NHM & DEIC Observe World Disability Day with a Call for Accessibility and Empowerment
Shillong, December 2 : In a significant stride toward building a more inclusive and equitable society, the District Early Intervention Centre (DEIC) of Ganesh Das Government M&CH Hospital, in collaboration with the National Health Mission (NHM) and the State Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK), observed World Disability Day at the Directorate of Health Services (DHS) for Medical Education and Research, Pasture Hills, Shillong.
The event, themed “Fostering a Disability-Inclusive Society for Advancing Social Progress,” focused on bridging information gaps for parents and caregivers, highlighting government health schemes, education opportunities, and welfare benefits for children with disabilities (CwDs) in Meghalaya.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. E. Shadap, Medical Superintendent, Ganesh Das M&CH Hospital, emphasized that inclusion is not a privilege but a right.
“True progress is measured not just by economic success but by how well we empower every member of our society,” she said, urging greater accessibility in education, healthcare, employment, and public infrastructure. “Persons with disabilities don’t seek empathy—they seek opportunities, access, and respect,” she added.
The event featured insightful sessions from experts across departments:
- Emi Kharchandi, District Social Welfare Officer, East Khasi Hills, highlighted scholarship and grant schemes for students with disabilities and online AI training initiatives.
- Ram Sahani, Director, Composite Regional Centre (CRC) for Skill Development, Rehabilitation and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, detailed national schemes for the differently-abled and announced India’s first Diploma in Sign Language Interpretation, recently approved by the Rehabilitation Council of India. He also introduced CRC Shillong’s Pre-Job Coaching Scheme, offering stipends and skill development training to enhance employment opportunities.
- Experts from the State Resource Centre, Civil Hospital, discussed UDID (Unique Disability ID) registration and employment options for persons with special needs.
- Representatives from Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) emphasized inclusive education models for children with learning and developmental disabilities.
- MIMHANS Shillong conducted an awareness session on mental health and stigma, while the School and Centre for Hearing Handicapped Children, Laitumkhrah, underscored the importance of special schools in holistic rehabilitation.
The programme also featured vibrant cultural performances, including a skit by DEIC staff and a dance presentation by Same Wanker Thanbah, followed by a gift distribution ceremony for children.
In her closing remarks, Dr. J.B. Ranee, Medical Officer, DEIC, expressed gratitude to all departments for their unified commitment to disability inclusion.
This observance reinforced Meghalaya’s expanding focus on inclusive governance, where the collaboration of health, education, and social welfare institutions strengthens early intervention, rehabilitation, and empowerment pathways for persons with disabilities.
Among those present were Dr. I. Gatphoh, State Nodal Officer, RBSK; Wanroilin Khongshun, State Resource Centre; Merilang Kharbyngar, SSA; F. Pdianghunlin Nongbri, MIMHANS; Pyntngenlang Fancon, School & Centre for Hearing Handicapped Children; Dr. S. Longtrai, Pediatrician, DEIC; and Dr. E. Shadap, Medical Superintendent, Ganesh Das M&CH Hospital.
