Beneficiaries with officials during the distribution of assistive devices at the DPDB conference hall, Kohima on August 17. (DIPR Photo)
Kohima, August 17 (MExN): In a push towards inclusive welfare, the District Administration and District Social Welfare Office, Kohima, in collaboration with the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO), distributed assistive devices to 671 persons with disabilities and senior citizens under two central schemes.
The distribution programme, held at the DPDB conference hall, Kohima on August 17, covered 27 beneficiaries under the Assistance to Persons with Disabilities for Purchase/Fitting of Aids and Appliances (ADIP) Scheme and 644 beneficiaries under the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY). The total value of the devices distributed was approximately Rs 62.24 lakh, with Rs 2.35 lakh under ADIP and Rs 59.89 lakh under RVY.
Among the key devices handed out were 390 wheelchairs, 500 walking sticks, 541 LS belts, 646 knee braces, 457 commode chairs, 120 walkers, 100 hearing aids, 265 silicon foam cushions, 13 spinal supports, 76 cervical collars, and other aids such as crutches, rollators, TLM kits, and a cellphone for a leprosy patient, stated a DIPR report.
Advisor for School Education, Dr Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, who handed over select devices to token beneficiaries on stage, called for greater social inclusion of Divyangjan and senior citizens, effective utilisation of government funds, and stronger convergence among departments to ensure welfare schemes reach the grassroots.
“Many persons with disabilities, particularly children, remain confined to their homes due to mobility challenges,” Dr Yhome said. He emphasised the need for communities to identify such persons, extend support and make them feel accepted as an integral part of society.
He cited an example from his own village, where youth groups were encouraged to track vulnerable members and provide care. “Such community participation and social awareness are vital to ensure no citizen is left behind,” he added.
Warning against procedural lapses, Dr Yhome urged officers and Heads of Departments to ensure timely compliance with government requirements, noting that failure to adhere to guidelines could result in the State losing access to central funds.
Emphasising the role of data, he said the ongoing Census operations were crucial for identifying beneficiaries and planning effective interventions. “Even small government interventions can make a significant difference in the lives of vulnerable citizens,” he observed.
Stating that Kohima, with its better access to information and institutions, should take the lead in developing a model for reaching government programmes to village doorsteps, Dr Yhome called for a collective effort to design effective delivery mechanisms at the grassroots.
He also highlighted the role of banks in rural financial inclusion and suggested that the State Bank of India be invited to explain its banking services and outreach initiatives, especially in villages with limited banking facilities.
Calling for stronger convergence among departments, he said government programmes would have greater impact when implemented in an integrated manner rather than in isolation.
The ADIP Scheme provides durable, scientifically manufactured assistive devices to persons with locomotor, visual, and hearing disabilities to improve mobility, independence, and rehabilitation. Beneficiaries for the Kohima camp were assessed from July 1 to 6, 2026, prior to the distribution.
Counter-wise, systematic distribution of assistive devices is currently underway at Chiephobozou, Jakhama, and the District Social Welfare Office, Kohima.
