The International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025 was observed on December 3 at the Heritage Bamboo Hall, Kisama. Organized by the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare, this year’s global theme, “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress,” guided the program.
MLA and Advisor Wangpang Konyak, Social Welfare Department, Government of Nagaland in his keynote address emphasized that the day’s observance is not merely ceremonial but a call to action for transforming Nagaland into a society that fully values and uplifts persons with disabilities.
“In our Naga culture, we believe every person carries a unique gift from God,” he said. “Many of our friends with disabilities are already leading running SHGs, serving in village councils, teaching our children, preserving our traditions, and inspiring our communities. Their voices and leadership strengthen Nagaland.”
However, the MLA acknowledged that significant challenges remain such as inaccessible public spaces, inadequate infrastructure, and social attitudes that overlook ability and focus only on disability. He stressed that these barriers must be removed with urgency and commitment.
Under the leadership of the Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, Konyak said that the government reaffirmed its dedication to building a barrier-free and inclusive Nagaland through several initiatives like retrofitting public buildings, transport hubs, and community spaces, including efforts to make Kisama Heritage Village fully accessible.
Other initiatives include: ensuring all new projects adopt universal design standards, including ramps, elevators, tactile paving, accessible washrooms, and audio-visual signals; making all government schools barrier-free, training teachers in inclusive education, and providing digital learning materials and assistive devices to ensure no child is left behind; strict enforcement of job reservations and a shift from charity-based approaches to genuine empowerment; and continuing the ₹1 Crore Corpus Fund introduced in 2023 to support entrepreneurship among persons with disabilities.
The first cheques under this initiative were ceremonially handed over during the event.
“Disability rights are human rights. Inclusion is justice. Leadership of persons with disabilities is essential for the Nagaland we envision,” Konyak emphasized.
Limawabang Jamir, IAS, Secretary of Social Welfare and Ex-officio State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, delivered the welcome note, highlighting the significance of commemorating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities amidst Nagaland’s largest cultural celebration.
He emphasized this year’s theme, “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” calling on institutions and communities to build a society where inclusion is the norm and every person enjoys equal rights, access, and opportunities.
Jamir expressed appreciation to the Department of Social Welfare, the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, district administrations, civil society groups, and caregivers for their dedication to advancing disability rights in the State. He also acknowledged the presence of talented artists, entrepreneurs, performers, and sportspersons with disabilities, noting that their contributions exemplify boundless ability and excellence.
He urged everyone to work toward removing physical and attitudinal barriers, creating accessible and supportive communities. Concluding his address, he extended a warm welcome to all participants and reaffirmed the collective resolve to build a more inclusive and progressive Nagaland where no one is left behind.
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The programme featured a touching poem by Keyirenialule, followed by a soulful instrumental performance by Ketoulhoutuo Zuyie.
A key highlight of the programme was the Presentation of Financial Assistance under the Chief Minister’s Corpus Fund for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). Beneficiaries from Noklak, Wokha, and Kiphire were formally handed support as part of the State’s ongoing effort to empower persons with disabilities and enhance economic independence. A video documentary showcasing Model PwDs was also released.
The programme was chaired by Ruvuorienuo Juliana Medom, Supervisor, Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (SCPD). The event began with an invocation by Kezhosato Savi, Pastor of Jakhama Baptist Church, setting a warm and reflective tone for the day.
To ensure full accessibility and participation, the event was supported by sign language interpreters Ruokuokhrienuo Vizotha and Catherine Thong, who facilitated communication throughout the programme.
In her closing remarks, Tosheli Zhimomi, Director of the Social Welfare Department, expressed gratitude to all participants, performers, and stakeholders for their commitment to advancing disability rights and building an inclusive Nagaland.
The programme concluded with an announcement that the Disability Pride Fair 2025 would follow, bringing together entrepreneurs, artists, and organisations in a vibrant celebration of ability, creativity, and empowerment.
