Nagaland: International Day of Persons with Disabilities observed across the state

Nagaland joined the global observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) on December 3, 2025, under the theme “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress.” Programmes were held across districts reaffirming commitment to inclusivity, accessibility and empowerment.
In Kohima, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) 2025 was observed at the Heritage Bamboo Hall, Kisama, on Wednesday, organised by the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare, coinciding with the Hornbill Festival.
In his keynote address, advisor for Social Welfare Wangpang Konyak said the annual observance was a call to action to build a society that values and uplifts persons with disabilities (PwDs). Referring to the year’s supplementary theme——he said it reflected Nagaland’s belief that every individual carries a unique gift. He stated that many PwDs in the State were already contributing significantly as leaders of self-help groups, members of village councils, teachers, artisans and cultural custodians. Wangpang acknowledged persistent challenges such as inaccessible public spaces, inadequate infrastructure and social attitudes that focus more on disability than on ability. He said the State government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, had reaffirmed its commitment to building a barrier-free Nagaland. Measures highlighted included retrofitting public buildings, transport hubs and community spaces; adopting universal design standards in all new infrastructure; making government schools fully accessible; training teachers in inclusive education; and providing digital learning materials and assistive devices. He also cited strict enforcement of job reservations for PwDs, a shift from charity-based support to empowerment-focused initiatives, and continuation of the Rs. 1 crore Chief Minister’s Corpus Fund for PwD entrepreneurship, introduced in 2023. The first cheques under the fund were formally handed over during the programme.
Earlier, Limawabang Jamir, secretary of Social Welfare and Ex-officio State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, delivered the welcome address. He noted the significance of marking IDPD during the State’s largest cultural festival and reiterated the global theme. He called on communities, institutions and government agencies to work toward a society where inclusion is the norm and equal rights and opportunities are ensured for all.
He acknowledged the contributions of district administrations, civil society organisations, caregivers and line departments, while recognising the achievements of artists, entrepreneurs, performers and sportspersons with disabilities present at the event. He urged collective efforts to overcome physical and attitudinal barriers, reaffirming the State’s commitment to building a more inclusive Nagaland. The programme featured a poem presentation by Keyirenialule and an instrumental performance by Ketoulhoutuo Zuyie. A video documentary on model PwDs was also released. Another key highlight was the Presentation of Financial Assistance under the Chief Minister’s Corpus Fund for PwDs, with beneficiaries from Noklak, Wokha and Kiphire receiving support aimed at enhancing economic independence.
The programme was chaired by Rüvuorienuo Juliana Medom, Supervisor, Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities. The invocation was pronounced by Kezhosato Savi, Pastor of Jakhama Baptist Church. To ensure accessibility, the entire event was supported by sign language interpreters Ruokuokhrienuo Vizotha and Catherine Thong.
In her closing remarks, Tosheli Zhimomi, Director of Social Welfare, expressed gratitude to all participants and stakeholders for their dedication to advancing disability rights in the State. She announced that the Disability Pride Fair 2025 would follow the programme, bringing together entrepreneurs, artists and organisations in a celebration of ability, creativity and empowerment.
Dimapur: The programme to commemorate the day, was organised by Samagra Shiksha DMA Dimapur in collaboration with the District Disability Committee, NSRLM and Blessed Bonding (NGO). The event opened with a welcome address by inclusive educator and resource person, Akito Kiba.
The programme featured a Braille reading by visually impaired student, Yangthvuii Sumi of GMS NNM, and a poem recitation by Rohit Mandal of GMS Dimapur Town, underscoring the day’s focus on inclusive participation.
Addressing the gathering, EAC Dimapur and District Disability Committee member, Imlijungia Lemtur, shared professional insights and personal reflections on disability inclusion. Extending greetings to students, parents, teachers, officials and partner organisations, she expressed gratitude for the collaborative spirit shown by Samagra Shiksha, Blessed Bonding and district-level agencies. Lemtur highlighted ongoing efforts of the State Commission for Persons with Disabilities and stressed the importance of recognising individuals as differently abled, each with unique strengths. She noted that while inclusivity is improving, lack of awareness continues to create unintentional barriers, particularly in identifying and supporting children with special needs.
She emphasised the necessity of specialised training for teachers, acknowledging challenges faced by the education department and the dedication shown by educators who support students with disabilities out of personal commitment. Lemtur also pointed out the urgent need for accurate assessments, certifications and documentation, which are essential for enabling children to access government support systems. Inclusive development, she said, requires not only trained teachers but also informed parents and community members. Commending organisations like Blessed Bonding for their on-ground engagement, she called for stronger collaboration among teachers, parents, civil bodies and government departments. With collective effort, she added, every child—regardless of ability—can aspire confidently to their future goals.
Chairman of Blessed Bonding, Anito, also shared reflections on community involvement in disability support. This was followed by a presentation titled “Communicate Your Way” by children from GPS Industrial Village Razhuphe, showcasing expressive abilities. In her remarks, PT teacher, Keren Sumi of GPS Industrial Village Razhuphe, raised concerns about challenges faced by children with special needs in government schools. She urged Samagra Shiksha and the department to organise training workshops and seminars for teachers, many of whom lack formal backgrounds in inclusive education. Narrating the story of a boy with autism who displayed remarkable creativity when given the right opportunity, she stressed the importance of understanding diverse behavioural and intellectual traits of autistic children rather than assuming incapacity. She also highlighted gaps in parental awareness, the high cost of specialised learning materials, and the need for stronger interventions and scholarship support. Keren urged the government to involve parents and strengthen school-level inclusive practices, emphasizing that teachers alone cannot meet all the needs of children with special needs.
NSRLM representative, Nsungbeni Kinghen, BPM Dhansiripar, spoke on the mission’s social inclusion initiatives. She explained how NSRLM works to ensure no household is excluded, detailing interventions such as formation of SHGs for PwDs, access to revolving and community investment funds, livelihood support through farm and non-farm activities, branding and packaging assistance, and youth skill development. Kinghen shared that Dimapur district currently has 14 PwD SHGs covering 109 households and 25 elderly SHGs involving 246 households, reaffirming NSRLM’s commitment to strengthening vulnerable communities and advancing inclusive growth.
A message from the Social Welfare Department, Dimapur, acknowledged the efforts of 109 Anganwadi Centres under ICDS in supporting pregnant mothers and other beneficiaries across the district. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Freda, ADC Samagra Shiksha Dimapur, followed by fun and entertainment activities for children, bringing the observance to a joyful and inclusive close.
Wokha: At Wokha, the programme was graced by deputy commissioner, Vineet Kumar, as special guest. In his address, Kumar commended persons with disabilities for their determination and resilience, citing physicist Stephen Hawking as an example of brilliance and perseverance. He also distributed blankets to attendees as a gesture of appreciation. The welcome address was delivered by District Welfare Officer, C. James Ezung, while the programme was conducted under the stewardship of EAC Sangmou Khiamniungan.
Tseminyu: In Tseminyu, the event was organised by the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities under the Social Welfare department in collaboration with district administration and Disabled People’s Organisation, Tseminyu. Deputy commissioner, Japheth Woch, in his keynote address, urged the Disable Union to adopt the nomenclature “Differently Abled Union.” He announced that a special people’s cell has been set up at DC Office, Tseminyu, to provide free certificates including ST, Indigenous Inhabitant, PRC and Aadhaar. Welfare inspector, Zahebeituo Kire, highlighted government schemes for PwDs, while centre administrator, SAKHI-OSC, Kenyuhyule Thong, presented facilities available at the centre. The programme was chaired by EAC Molosangla Ozukum.
Kiphire: At Kiphire, the programme was held at DPDB’s conference hall, organised by district administration in collaboration with District Disabled People’s Organisation and the State Commissioner for PwDs. Keynote address was delivered by Yokhase Sangtam, president of Kiphire District Disability Association, who emphasized collaborative efforts across departments to uphold disability rights. Special invitees included CDPO Sienotho and Dr. Tiakumzuk, MD Pathology, District Hospital Kiphire, who encouraged continued advocacy and highlighted scholarships and benefits available. EAC Zhavito urged the public to become the best support system for the disabled community. The event featured cultural presentations and concluded with a vote of thanks by KDDA member, Pisangla. The programme was chaired by district coordinator (BHI), Rovila Sangtam.
Shamator: In Shamator, deputy commissioner, Chubatemjen, appreciated the contributions of persons with disabilities to the district’s growth and development. He emphasized equality, dignity and inclusion, and called for removal of barriers to enable active participation of PwDs in all spheres of life. District programme officer, Social Welfare, made a presentation to PwDs as a gesture of recognition. On behalf of the community, K. Yinsoba Yimkhiung expressed gratitude and urged the DC to explore possibilities for establishing an inclusive school in the district.
The programme concluded with collective commitment from stakeholders to build a more inclusive society, with active participation from PwDs, caregivers, officials and dignitaries.