The State Commission for Persons with Disabilities (SCPD) and the Nagaland Parents Association for the Disabled (NAPAD), in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and with support from PARIVAAR-NCPO, organised a one-day training-cum-orientation programme for HITARTH Sahayaks to strengthen the implementation and promotion of the NIRAMAYA Health Insurance Scheme under the National Trust.
The programme brought together HITARTH Sahayaks, parents and guardians of persons with disabilities, NAPAD members, and officials and staff of the SCPD and Social Welfare Department.
State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Tongpang L. Jamir, who delivered the keynote address, highlighted challenges encountered in implementing NIRAMAYA and acknowledged the role of PARIVAAR-NCPO, in collaboration with Voice of Specially Abled People (VOSAP), in facilitating its implementation.
Jamir urged HITARTH Sahayaks to discharge their responsibilities with dedication and stressed that sustained coordination among stakeholders was essential for the effective implementation of NIRAMAYA and other welfare programmes for persons with disabilities.
He explained that NIRAMAYA covers four categories of disabilities, namely Cerebral Palsy, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disabilities and Multiple Disabilities. He said the National Trust was established to safeguard the rights and welfare of persons with developmental disabilities who often require lifelong care, rehabilitation and sustained support.
Joint Director, Social Welfare Department, Imlongzenla said the department would support awareness efforts on NIRAMAYA and the importance of obtaining a Unique Disability ID (UDID) card. She said dedicated staff were available to assist persons with disabilities with UDID-related matters.
Technical sessions covered disability perspectives, NIRAMAYA and the HITARTH initiative. Ashe Kiba, Programme Coordinator, SCPD, spoke on disability, while Mary Lotha, General Secretary, NAPAD, explained NIRAMAYA and its benefits. Kielie Nakhro, Secretary, North East Zone, PARIVAAR-NCPO, discussed the role of HITARTH Sahayaks in enrolment and awareness.
The programme was chaired by Ruvuorienuo Juliana, Supervisor, SCPD. Bendangenla Imsong delivered the welcome address, while a dance performance by The Special Squad was also presented.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Kevirhebi Mor, Executive Member, NAPAD.
HITARTH Sahayaks have been appointed across districts to facilitate NIRAMAYA implementation. Eligible persons may contact SCPD at 8575858081 during office hours.