A distribution camp for persons with disabilities (Divyangjan) under the Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/Fitting of Aids and Appliances (ADIP) Scheme was organized by the District Level Committee on Disability in collaboration with the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) at the Municipal Council Office Complex, Kohima
At the event, Deputy Commissioner, Kohima, Kumar Ramnikant emphasized the importance of making society more accessible. He said equality cannot be achieved without accessibility, and the camp represents a small but significant step towards creating a more inclusive society.
He urged the community to be more aware of the needs of persons with disabilities. State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Diethono Nakhro, highlighted the significance of the assessment and distribution camp in supporting the disability sector in Kohima.
She explained that families with disabled members face unique and high costs, and required extra assistance. She also said that awareness about living with disabilities has increased, and much work needed to be done. She therefore called for collaborative efforts from the church, public organizations, women’s groups, and society at large to make the community more accessible for people with disabilities.
Nakhro also stressed the importance of accessible schools, classrooms, and playgrounds to ensure disabled children can socialize and participate fully in community life.
She pointed out that the high costs of assistive aids and devices often lead to exclusion and isolation for persons with disabilities. “These devices are not just tools but enablers of talents, passions, and potential”, she said.
The program, chaired by Moasunep K. Jingru, EAC (Development), began with an invocation by Vikengungu Fatima Kera, president of the Nagaland State Disabilities Forum. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Ashe Kiba, who expressed gratitude on behalf of the disabled community to the ADIP team and everyone involved in making the camp a success.