Reports on observation of World Disability Day

Along with rest of the world, Exodus Disabled People Organizations Federation Dimapur, in collaboration with Prodigals’ Home, Development Association of Nagaland and People in Need Foundation observed the ‘International day for persons with disabilities’ on December 3 at Covenant Hall, Christian Higher Secondary School, Dimapur, with chairman of SIRD and minerals, Merentoshi Jamir, as the chief guest. 
Speaking at the programme, the chief guest said disabled people can achieve greater things if they take the disability as a challenge and not as impairment. He stated ‘there are great peoples; but greater people are people with disabilities.’
Jamir illustrated few persons with disabilities like modern scientist Stephen Hawking, Musician Stevie Wonder etc. who have excelled and contributed immensely to the society.
He also encouraged the disabled community not to feel themselves as weak person but to have the courage and strong determination for the dreams they have.
Meanwhile, MD (PMR) Senior Specialists, Dr. Imlitemsu, shared about the medical aspects of disabilities. He stressed his speech on early intervention, full participation of caregivers and right treatment with the right doctor at the right time.
Assistant Director Prodigals’ Home, Maong Jamir, briefly shared the initiatives of Community Based Rehabilitation (CBR) for people with disabilities programme and concept of Disabled People Organizations (DPO). He reported that Dimapur has 52 village level DPOs, three block level DPOs, one district level DPO and one State level DPO. Other speakers of the programme included Hukhevi from Chekiye village and Vetatso Lohe from Zandi village. Khevishe Chishi and Chaliengue shared on behalf of parents.
The programme highlights included special songs, Bible reading and dance by people with disabilities and children with disabilities. 
Altogether, 250 people with disabilities and 200 well wishers attended the function.
The programme was chaired by Director Prodigals’ Home, K Ela, and sponsored by Rev. Grace Savino, Crescendo Dimapur, Digamber Jain Society Dimapur and Christian Higher Secondary School, Dimapur.
In a separate programme, Naga Blind Association observed the 13th World Disabled Day on December 3 at the School for Visually Impaired Complex, Notun Bosti, Dimapur, at 11 a.m. on the theme “Nothing about us without us.”
Dimapur ADC, Elizabeth, graced the occasion as the chief guest. She has appreciated the visually impaired students activities and abilities.  The programme concluded with a mass prayer.
In yet another programme, People in Need Foundation, Jalukie also observed the World Disability Day at Jalukie Town Hall which was sponsored by Lilliane foundation.  Altogether ninety persons with disabilities, including their guardians took part in the event.
The occasion was graced by Dennis Elung, who also encouraged the gathering and PWDs in particular.  Presentation of songs and dances by students were some highlights of the celebration.