Port Blair, Dec 01: December 3, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, is an international observance which aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. It also seeks to increase awareness of gains to be derived from the integration of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life. The theme for this year’s observance is “Transformation towards sustainable and resilient society for all”.
To commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Social Welfare Department has organized a weeklong program celebrating International Day for Divyangjan from Nov 27 to Dec 3, 2017 at center for Divyangjan, Brookshabad. Various events such as drawing, fancy dress, dance, Bal Sabha, sports etc. were conducted. The Department has urged all to be empathetic to people with special needs and contribute in building an inclusive, sustainable & resilient society.
The Social Welfare Department provides services to enable persons with special needs to lead a dignified life. These include Disability Allowance of Rs 2000 per month to Divyangjan, mobility aids like wheel chair, elbow stick, crutches, hearing aid etc. Facilities provided by other departments include free bus pass in Govt. buses and 50% concession in private buses, free annual ship ticket to mainland, free tickets in inter-Island boats, reservation in allotment of shops etc. A centre for Divyangjan is operational at Brookshabad where services of occupational therapist, speech therapist, physiotherapist and special educator are available.