Newmai News Network Imphal | January 30 In an effort to enhance the quality of life for differently-abled people and their families, a community based rehabilitation project for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) was launched today at Spastic Society of Manipur Campus, Tapokpi Bazar, Langthabal Kunja, Canchipur. CAF & PD, Revenue Minister K Shyam, and Education, Labour and Employment Minister Th Radheshyam graced the inaugural function as chief guest and president respectively. The project for PWDs implemented by Spastic Society Manipur in collaboration with National Institute of Locomotor Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has a composite centre that that aims towards empowerment of differently-abled persons on a rights based approach. Recalling the year 2013 when there was some conflict regarding land allocation to the Spastic Society at Tapokpi during the tenure of the previous Government, Revenue Minister K Shyam expressed happiness over the utility and benefits the construction of the Spastic Society will give to the PWDs of the society. “There will be a Primary health centre at Tapokpi Lampak where there is a water supply at present. With this centre and the spastic society, there will be development in the Kendra,” he convinced. Almost 2% of the total population of around 28 lakhs people in the state i.e., around 54,000 belong to PWDs but they have immense talents despite the challenges and odds, he said. PWDs should live life without inferiority complex as they are also contributing their own specific roles towards shaping society, he maintained. Education & Labour Minister Th Radheshyam, a masters in social work from JMI prior to his entry in Police in 1992, said that he is ready to bear the deposit cost for providing transport facilities for running the project whether van or eco in monthly installments and construct a workshed for skill development. Convincing the gathering that he is ready to select qualified, meritorious PWDs candidates when there will be recruitment in education dept., he lauded the good attendance of female section of the population in the function, their activities and contribution as soothing ailments to the society during times of crisis as compared with their male counterparts. A blood donation camp was also held today in co-ordination with Welfare Association for Blind, Life Savers Manipur State Blood Cell-NHM & RIMS Blood Bank and Welfare Club, Langthabal Kunja during the function. As part of the launching programme, 10 differently abled persons from different walks of life were felicitated with a certificate and a blanket each by the dignitaries. A group of blind artists performed a melodious song titled – Shitli Nungshitna, while Konthoujam Maikel Meitei presented a live collage work during the programme. Locomotor-disabled, L Isheihanbi Devi showcased a marvellous piece of foot embroidery in front of the audience.
