Attendees during the International Disability Day event organised by the CIHSR on December 3.
Dimapur, December 4 (MExN): The Christian Institute of Higher Sciences and Research (CIHSR) Rehabilitation Committee observed International Disability Day 2025 on December 3 with a programme themed “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress.”
In his welcome address, Medical Superintendent CIHSR Dr Bendang Jamir noted that disability should be viewed as a social issue rather than solely an individual condition.
“An inclusive community that embraces disability is essential for true progress,” he stated, calling for collective efforts to adopt more considerate and proactive approaches in supporting persons with disabilities (PwDs) as well as promoting inclusivity for all.
Extra Assistant Commissioner (EAC) Seyievilie Pfukri also spoke on the role of sensitisation and community responsiveness in improving the lives of PwDs.
He also stressed the importance of understanding their specific needs and responding effectively at grassroots and community levels.
A panel discussion formed a key part of the event, featuring Dr Temsuyanger Lemtur, Senior Psychiatrist, District Hospital Dimapur; Fr Chacko Karinthayil, Secretary, Commission for Health and Diocese of Kohima; Dr Moalemba Jamir, Associate Editor, The Morung Express; Pfokreni Enoni, Assistant Professor (Counselling), Oriental Theological Seminary; and Nyusasie Katiry, Senior Supervisor and Child Development Project Officer.
The discussion focused on engaging communities, including the media, in supporting persons with disabilities beyond reliance on government policies and schemes.
Emphasis was placed on fostering a culture of love and compassion, advocating for empowerment rather than pity, and addressing mental health issues alongside physical disabilities.
The panel also discussed existing government schemes aimed at children with special needs and the procedures involved in accessing such support, informed a press release from CIHSR Rehabilitation Team.
The speakers reaffirmed that although a cure for disabilities may not be readily available, there remains no limit to the scope of care and support that can be provided to encourage independent and functional living, it added.
A person with a physical disability also shared his experience, encouraging others with similar conditions to remain active, engaged, and open about their abilities.
The event also featured personal testimonies from caregivers and parents of children with special needs, who spoke about emotional and social challenges and called for greater understanding from community and church organisations.
They urged the public to move beyond misconceptions that frame disability negatively.
A special presentation was also given by students of Precious Gem School.
The event brought together patients, caregivers, representatives from Chümoukedima EAC, officials from the Education Department, the Child Development Project Office, and NGOs including Christian Mission Nagaland, DMC Mission Shakti, the Gender Specialist Office Dimapur, and Deaf Biblical Missionary Chümoukedima.
It underscored the collective responsibility to foster inclusive communities and to ensure that persons with disabilities are fully integrated into social, educational and economic spheres, the release added.
