Shillong, February 12 : The Governor of Meghalaya, C.H. Vijayashankar, attended a special programme at Lok Bhavan, Shillong, organised by the Office of the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Social Welfare Department, Government of Meghalaya, in collaboration with Lok Bhavan, to felicitate outstanding Persons with Disabilities.
The event was attended by several dignitaries including Himalaya M. Shangpliang, Chief Adviser of the Meghalaya State Paralympics Association; H.C. Chaudhary, Principal Secretary to the Governor; Pravin Bakshi, Commissioner & Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, Social Welfare Department; C.D. Lyngwa, Director, Social Welfare Department; and Lyngkor Kynjing, Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, along with other senior officials.
During the programme, ten outstanding individuals were felicitated in recognition of their achievements and contributions. The awardees included Ferdinand Lyngdoh Marshillong, Anjelina Tynhiang, Simseng M. Sangma, Willingson Manar, Orphon Nongrum, Shanborlang Siangshai, Madhu Subedhi, Keneddy Rynjah, Jepora T. Sangma, and Pillbert Hanse.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor praised the awardees for their indomitable spirit, stating that their accomplishments demonstrate that disability is not a limitation but a mark of strength and courage. He stressed the need to identify root causes of disabilities and strengthen preventive measures through early detection, awareness, timely medical intervention, maternal and child healthcare, road safety, and public health strategies.
The Governor also highlighted India’s commitment as a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), reaffirming the nation’s resolve to uphold dignity, rights, and full participation of persons with disabilities.
Emphasising that the progress of a society is measured by how it treats its most vulnerable members, he noted that the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 provides a strong legal foundation for equality, accessibility, and non-discrimination. He called upon government departments, institutions, civil society, and citizens to work collectively to translate the spirit of the Act into meaningful action.
In his welcome address, H.C. Chaudhary underscored the importance of inclusivity and empowerment in building a just and equitable society, while Pravin Bakshi reiterated the State Government’s commitment to effective implementation of welfare measures under the Act. Himalaya M. Shangpliang also lauded the resilience of the awardees and reaffirmed efforts to enhance accessibility and opportunities.
The ceremony reaffirmed Meghalaya’s commitment to inclusivity, dignity, and equal opportunity, celebrating individual achievements while strengthening the collective resolve to build a compassionate and barrier-free society.
