Sri Vijayapuram, Apr 02: The Composite Regional Centre (CRC), Andaman & Nicobar Islands, observed World Autism Awareness Day 2026 with great enthusiasm and commitment at its premises in Brookshabad, in association with the Rotary Club, Sri Vijaya Puram. The programme commenced with the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp, symbolizing hope, knowledge, and inclusivity.
Delivering the inaugural address, Rtn. Mr. Rajesh Anand, Assistant Governor, Rotary Club, appreciated the efforts of parents and the resilience of children with autism. He emphasized that every child is unique and possesses immense potential, and called upon society to extend compassion, understanding, and equal opportunities to individuals on the autism spectrum. He further reiterated Rotary’s continued commitment towards supporting initiatives that promote inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities.
In her keynote address, Smti. Sumithamol.S, Director, CRC, A&N Islands, highlighted the critical importance of early intervention, inclusive practices, and active community participation in empowering children with autism. She reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to strengthening support systems across the Islands and expressed her sincere gratitude to the Rotary Club, Sri Vijaya Puram for their valuable support in organizing the programme.
Earlier, Mr. Kishore Kumar Shah, Assistant Professor (Special Education), delivered the welcome address, setting the tone for the event. The programme featured a series of vibrant cultural performances by the special children of CRC, which were warmly appreciated by the audience. Prizes and certificates were distributed to the participants, celebrating their talents and achievements.
As a precursor to the celebration, CRC conducted a series of engaging activities including painting competitions, talent shows, storytelling sessions, and various adaptive games. These activities witnessed enthusiastic participation from children and were aimed at nurturing creativity, confidence, and social interaction. All participating children, along with winners, were felicitated during the programme.
The event was graced by the presence of Rtn. Arun Srivastava, Secretary, Rotary Club, along with Rtn. Dhinakaran, Rtn. Dinesh, Rtn. Amar Gupta, and Rtn. Shrawan Agarwal, whose presence added significance to the occasion.
As the world observes World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, CRC, Andaman & Nicobar Islands reiterates its commitment towards building an inclusive and supportive society for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Autism is a neurological and developmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behaviour. It is not a disease, but a different way of experiencing the world—reflecting the richness of human diversity.
In the geographically unique region of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, challenges such as limited access to specialized services and delayed identification in remote areas persist. Despite this, CRC continues to play a pivotal role under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, with the support of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration, by providing early identification, therapeutic interventions, parent counselling, inclusive education support, and outreach services across the Islands.
This year’s theme, “Autism and Humanity – Every Life Has Value,” underscores the importance of respect, dignity, inclusion, and recognition of the abilities and potential of individuals with autism. It calls upon society to move beyond awareness towards meaningful acceptance.
CRC, A&N Islands urges the community to join hands in promoting understanding, breaking stereotypes, and fostering an inclusive environment where every individual is valued and empowered.
