Celebration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities at JNMI, Boomtar

Namchi, December 3 (IPR):
The Women and Child Development Department of Namchi organised a special event to celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities at the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Institute (JNMI), Boomtar today.
The theme for this year’s celebration was “Amplifying The Leaderships of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.”
The event was graced by Mr Bhoj Raj Rai Minister for Urban Development and Food & Civil Supplies Departments.
He was accompanied by Mrs Sabitri Tamang Vice Chairman NMC, Mr Einosh Rai Panchayat Vice President of 34-Boomtar Salleybong, Mr Subash Ghimirey ADC (HQ) Namchi, Mr SN Adhikar CMO Namchi, Ms Tshering Ongmu Bhutia Joint Director of Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Mr Laxman Tamang CDPO, Ms Sophia Lepcha AD Nutrition, Panchayat members, JNMI staff, and other officials.
In his address, Mr. Bhoj Raj Rai expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone present.
He explained that despite his busy schedule, he had prioritised attending the event to interact with individuals with disabilities.
He stressed the importance of providing equal opportunities for people with disabilities and called on society to ensure their rightful place within the community. He further encouraged persons with disabilities to actively contribute to the nation’s growth.
As a gesture of support, he announced that able-bodied individuals who marry persons with disabilities would receive gifts from him.
He assured the gathering that the state government is fully committed to the welfare of persons with disabilities and is actively working towards creating a more inclusive society.
Ms Sophia Lepcha Assistant Director of Nutrition, delivered an informative session on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016.
She provided insight into the key amendments and recent updates to the Act, highlighting the Sikkim government’s ongoing efforts to assist persons with disabilities in areas such as education, pension schemes, scholarships, and awards for school toppers with disabilities.
She also shared that the Sikkim government offers a financial grant tobable-bodied individuals who marry persons with disabilities. She further informed the audience that 35 government buildings in Sikkim have been modified to ensure greater accessibility for people with disabilities.
Recognising Exemplary Individuals
The Chief Guest, Mr. Bhoj Raj Rai, presented a token of appreciation to Mr. Chitraman Manger, a visually impaired individual, for his dedicated service to JNMI.
In addition, three individuals with disabilities were honoured for their exceptional achievements:
Mr. Mani Kumar Gurung from Damthang, who has dwarfism
Mr. Nanda Kumar Subba from Selleybong, who is deaf and mute
Mr. Bir Man Tamang from JNMI, a visually impaired individual.
As part of the celebrations, the “UJJYALO 2024” programme, focusing on disability-inclusive eye health, was launched. This initiative aims to provide free eye screenings to persons with disabilities in collaboration with the Women & Child Development Department of the Government of Sikkim.
The event also featured a series of engaging activities, including a talent show and sports events for persons with disabilities. Participants showcased their skills and enthusiasm, and the winners were presented with prizes by the Chief Guest.
The welcome address was delivered by Ms Sonam Dikki Bhutia, Teacher at JNMI, while the vote of thanks was extended by Mr Purna Kumar, SWI.
This special programme highlighted the importance of inclusion and recognition for persons with disabilities, reaffirming the government’s commitment to building a more accessible and supportive society.