Nagaland Parents’ Association for the Disabled members attend National Conference

Nagaland Parents’ Association for the Disabled (NAPAD), with a 13-member delegation led by Tongpang L. Jamir, vice president of PARIVAAR-NCPO, and Kielie Nakhro, coordinator of NAPAD, attended the 31st National Parents Conference of PARIVAAR-NCPO held on November 29 and 30, 2025 at Dr. Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University, Lucknow. The conference was held under the theme “Nurturing Leadership for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future”.
Organized in collaboration with PARIVAAR-NCPO, the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (Divyangjan), the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, and hosted by the Uttar Pradesh Parents Organisation for the Disabled, the inaugural session was graced by Thawar Chand Ghelot, Governor of Karnataka and former Union Minister, as chief guest.
During the event, Mesenipong Pongen, a specially-abled young adult and son of Bendangtoshi Pongen, was conferred the Santosh Jeevani National Award 2025 for his self-advocacy in promoting entrepreneurship, creating employment opportunities, and motivating specially-abled groups and others. He was commended for channelizing his personal experiences and entrepreneurial skills through motivational talks and contributing towards building an inclusive society. He received a commendation and cash award from the chief guest.
In addition, The Special Squad—a dance group formed under NAPAD comprising specially-abled children Aripong Kichu, Khaikho Sangtsoi and Wapongmeren Longkumer—performed a Naga cultural dance and two Bollywood dance items, showcasing their talent at the national platform.