The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) was commemorated on December 3 at Ongpangkong Salang, Mokokchung, under the theme “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.”
The event was organized by the Nagaland State Rural Livelihood Mission (NSRLM), Mokokchung, in collaboration with the Mokokchung District Disabled Federation (MDDF).
The program began with a welcome address by Moatoshi, Assistant District Programme Manager, NSRLM, who emphasized the importance of social inclusion. He highlighted that societal development can only achieve its full potential when people with disabilities are actively included. He also noted that the IDPD was being observed across all 11 districts of Nagaland.
Arenlila Jamir, Advisor, MDDF, spoke about the origins of the day, which was introduced by the United Nations to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. She challenged preconceived notions about disabilities, explaining that disabilities are not always congenital but can occur at any stage of life. Referring to India’s Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016, which recognizes 21 types of disabilities, she encouraged collective efforts to ensure better inclusion. Arenlila emphasized the need for society to work together to create an environment where people with disabilities can thrive.
The Superintendent of Police, Mokokchung, addressed the importance of educating society about disabilities and treating individuals with disabilities as equals. He advocated for believing in their abilities and encouraging them to lead normal lives, urging people to treat them as equal members of society. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to sensitize law enforcement personnel on handling cases involving persons with disabilities with care and understanding.
Maong Jamir, Secretary Finance and Property, ABAM, who served as the theme speaker, questioned societal perceptions of disability and encouraged rethinking traditional definitions. He noted that persons with disabilities are often overprotected, which can hinder their independence, and argued that encouraging them to take charge of their lives is the best support society can offer. Addressing stigmas, he lamented that individuals born with disabilities are often viewed as a curse or a result of wrongdoing within the family. He called on society to identify individuals by their names and abilities rather than their disabilities. Additionally, he urged persons with disabilities to apply for the Unique Disability ID (UDID) card, which streamlines access to benefits and services.
The President of MDDF informed that aids and benefits for all the PWDs will be provided from 17th to 19th February 2025. He reminded all the PWDs to bring along UDID cards to avail the benefits.