Nagaland strengthens disability welfare network with HITARTH Sahayak training

Kohima, August 8 (MExN): The State Commission for Persons with Disabilities (SCPD) and the Nagaland Parents Association for the Disabled (NAPAD), in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and with support of PARIVAAR-NCPO (National Confederation of Parents Organization), organised a one-day training-cum-orientation programme for HITARTH Sahayaks to ensure effective implementation and promotion of the NIRAMAYA Health Insurance Scheme under the National Trust.

The programme held on August 7 at Talimeren Conference Hall, Nagaland Olympics Association Complex, Kohima, brought together HITARTH Sahayaks (volunteers), parents and guardians of persons with disabilities, members of NAPAD, and officers and staff of the SCPD and the Social Welfare Department, stated an update received here. 

Tongpang L Jamir, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, attended as the keynote speaker, alongside Theodore Yanthan, NCS, Joint Secretary, Social Welfare Department and Secretary, SCPD, and Imlongzenla, Joint Director, Social Welfare Department.

In his keynote address, Jamir shared the challenges faced during the implementation of the Niramaya scheme and highlighted the pivotal role played by PARIVAAR-NCPO, in collaboration with Voice of Specially Abled People (VOSAP), a US-based NGO, in facilitating its effective rollout. He appreciated the collective efforts of all stakeholders and said such partnerships have been instrumental in strengthening the scheme's outreach and ensuring its benefits reach the intended beneficiaries.

Jamir urged all HITARTH Sahayaks to carry out their responsibilities with dedication and commitment, underscoring their crucial role in the successful implementation of the scheme. He further stressed that sustained coordination and cooperation among all stakeholders were essential for the effective implementation of not only the Niramaya Scheme but also other welfare programmes aimed at empowering persons with disabilities (PwDs).

The Commissioner also elaborated on the rationale behind the National Trust covering only four categories of disabilities under the Niramaya Scheme — Cerebral Palsy, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Intellectual Disabilities, and Multiple Disabilities. He explained that the National Trust was established with the specific mandate of safeguarding the rights and welfare of individuals with these developmental disabilities, who often require lifelong care, continuous support, and substantial financial resources for healthcare, rehabilitation, education, and independent living. The scheme, he said, was designed to address the unique and long-term needs of this particularly vulnerable section of society.

Imlongzenla, Joint Director, Social Welfare Department, said the department would extend support in creating greater awareness about the Niramaya scheme and the importance of obtaining a Unique Disability ID (UDID) card. She informed the gathering that the department has dedicated staff to assist with UDID-related matters and assured participants of continued support to persons with disabilities.

The technical sessions covered various aspects relating to disability, Niramaya and the HITARTH initiative. Ashe Kiba, Programme Coordinator, SCPD, delivered a session providing an introduction to disability and related perspectives. Mary Lotha, General Secretary, NAPAD, spoke in detail on the Niramaya Health Insurance Scheme, including its relevance and benefits for eligible PwDs. Kielie Nakhro, Secretary, North East Zone, PARIVAAR-NCPO, conducted a session on the HITARTH Scheme, explaining the role and responsibilities of HITARTH Sahayaks in facilitating enrolment and creating awareness among eligible beneficiaries.

The programme was chaired by Ruvuorienuo Juliana, Supervisor, SCPD, while Bendangenla Imsong, Finance Secretary, NAPAD, delivered the welcome address. Sanen Amer, Coordinator, NAPAD, invoked God’s presence, and Marlong Longkumer, First President of NAPAD, shared a brief profile of the association, highlighting its journey and continued efforts towards welfare, empowerment and inclusion of PwDs.

Adding a special element, The Special Squad presented a dance performance which was warmly appreciated by the gathering. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Kevirhebi Mor, Executive Member, NAPAD.

The training programme is expected to strengthen the network of HITARTH Sahayaks in Nagaland and contribute towards greater awareness, enrolment and accessibility of the Niramaya scheme among eligible PwDs across the state.

It may be noted that HITARTH Sahayaks from each district have been appointed for the implementation of the Niramaya Scheme. For more information, interested persons and parents or guardians of PwDs with Cerebral Palsy, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disabilities and Multiple Disabilities can contact the State Commission for Persons with Disabilities at 8575858081 during office hours.