Dimapur, 17 July (MTNews): The Office of the Nagaland State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities organized a Disability Awareness and Sensitivity Workshop for Airport/Airlines Staff and Security Personnel at Dimapur Airport on 14 July. The workshop aimed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge to understand the unique needs and challenges faced by individuals with disabilities during travel. It also sought to foster empathy, inclusivity, and respectful attitudes towards persons with disabilities.
During the workshop, Disability Commissioner Diethono Nakhro referred to World Health Organization (WHO) data stating that 16% of the global population, or 1 in 6 people, live with a disability. Nakhro emphasized that an increasing number of individuals with disabilities now engage in travel for various purposes, including tourism, work, and leisure. She highlighted the importance of sensitization training, as many issues arise due to a lack of awareness and understanding of disability needs.
“When there is better understanding, the entire process will be so much smoother for everyone,” Nakhro stated.
The workshop covered various topics, including the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016, different types of disabilities, handling of assistive devices, and best practices for interacting with travelers with disabilities. Additionally, existing issues at Dimapur Airport, such as the need for proper maintenance of accessible/priority washrooms and designated disability parking and drop-off areas were highlighted.
Representatives from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Indigo, and Air India shared their experiences and challenges encountered when dealing with passengers with disabilities.
Geetha Sahu, APD AAI, extended a warm welcome to all participants and praised the initiative to enhance disability awareness and sensitivity among staff. Sahu emphasized that the workshop would contribute to providing better service and assistance to passengers with disabilities.
Paul P Chasie, CASO ASG Dimapur, expressed gratitude while delivering the vote of thanks. He emphasized the significance of disability sensitization, particularly in security screening procedures, to ensure a positive experience for passengers with disabilities.
Chasie assured the participants that the highlighted issues were noted, expressing confidence that increased awareness would enable personnel and staff to provide the necessary services and accommodations, thereby facilitating easier travel for passengers with disabilities.
The workshop was chaired by Yile Haikam of Indigo, and Kevingunu Fatima Kera, President of the Nagaland State Disability Forum (NSDF), was also present at the event.