International Day of Persons with Disabilities was observed across Nagaland on Wednesday on the theme, “Fostering Disability Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress”.
Noklak:
Office of the state Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Department of Social welfare, Nagaland in collaboration with District Administration/Disabled People’s Organization held the International Day of Persons with Disabilities under the theme ” Fostering Disability Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress’ on December 3 at DC conference Hall.
The theme speaker of the event, Chongkoi Khiamniungan, Development Secretary of the Khiamniungan Baptist Churches Association (KBCA), Komking, highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in society. She said that discrimination and negative attitudes towards PWDs is still prevalent, often preventing them from living with dignity and equal opportunity.
She said that when society fails to include PWDs, it not only restricts their potential but also limits overall social progress. She reminded the audience that PWDs are capable of employment and productivity.
Chongkoi stressed the need to remove the various barriers that hinder PWDs from participating fully in society. To actualise the theme of the event, she urged everyone to ensure that PWDs enjoy the same privileges, rights, and opportunities as others, which includes access to healthcare and education. She further emphasized the importance of involving PWDs in every sphere of life, including decision-making platforms where their voices and perspectives matter.
Reflecting on the local context, she pointed out that lack of awareness remains one of the biggest obstacles. Society must work harder to understand the needs and challenges of PWDs, she said. She also encouraged individuals with disabilities to accept themselves, recognise their strengths, and understand their rights and responsibilities. She also urged he caregivers to treat PWDs with dignity, patience, and compassion.
Heno M, DPO, in his testimony, shared the many obstacles he faces as a PWD. He also spoke on the challenges that gradually led him to lose motivation while preparing for competitive exams. He also shared how education was often hindered, causing him to fall behind his classmates. Yet, through these experiences, he conveyed a strong message to persons with disabilities: to overcome challenges, shame, and fear, and to keep moving forward with courage. He urged parents to offer support to their children, reminding them that encouragement at home can transform a child’s future. He also emphasized the importance of living an active social life, stating that inclusion and connection help build confidence and dignity for persons with disabilities.
A special prayer was offered to the persons with disabilities by Thango. K Youth Pastor, Noklak Town Baptist Church. They were also presented a gift.
Earlier, the program was chaired by Laam T, Psycho- Social Councellor, Invocation by Shing B, Gender Specialist DHEW, welcome note by Bangjunglemba,EAC, vote of thanks by Vein M , DMC DHEW Noklak, and benediction by mass.
Wokha:
DC Wokha, Vineet Kumar distributing blankets to PwDs during the celebration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities at Wokha
Wokha district joined the global observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3 at Wokha.
Deputy Commissioner, Wokha, Vineet Kumar, IAS, graced the occasion as the special guest. In his address, the Deputy Commissioner commended persons with disabilities for their unwavering determination and resilience. He acknowledged their significant contributions to society, citing the example of renowned physicist Stephen Hawking as a symbol of brilliance and perseverance.
As a gesture of appreciation and warmth, he also distributed blankets to the attendees with disabilities.
Welcome address was delivered by District Welfare Officer, Wokha, C James Ezung. The programme was conducted under the stewardship of Extra Assistant Commissioner, Wokha, Sangmou Khiamniungan.
The event served as a reminder of the importance of building inclusive communities that recognize and empower individuals of all abilities.
Tseminyu:
DC Tseminyu, Japheth Woch, addressing during International Day of Persons with Disabilities observed at DC’s conference hall Tseminyu
In Tseminyu, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities was observed under the theme “Fostering disability -inclusive societies for advancing social progress”, organised by the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Department under Social Welfare Department in collaboration with District Administration & Disabled People’s Organisation Tseminyu, on December 3 at DC conference hall Tseminyu.
Delivering a keynote address, Deputy Commissioner Tseminyu, Japheth Woch, welcomed all the differently able persons and urged the Disable Union to change their nomenclature to “Differently Abled Union” in Tseminyu district. He also announced that a special people’s cell is provided at DC Office, Tseminyu for the Differently Abled Persons to avail free certificates such as Scheduled Tribe Certificate, Indigenous Inhabitant Certificate, Permanent Residential Certificate, Aadhaar etc.
Welfare Inspector, DWO Kohima, Zahebeituo Kire, highlighted various schemes provided by the Government for the persons with disabilities. Centre Administrator, SAKHI-OSC, Tseminyu, Kenyuhyule Thong presented introduction to SAKHI-OSC and other facilities provided and available in the centre.
The program was chaired EAC Tseminyu, Molosangla Ozukum, who also proposed the closing remarks.
Kiphire:
Participants during the International Day of Person with Disabilities 2025 observed at DPDB’s Conference Hall, Kiphire
In Kiphire, the International Day of Person with Disabilities 2025 was held at DPDB’s Conference Hall, Kiphire on December 3.
The programme was organised by the District Administration Kiphire in collaboration with District Disabled People’s Organisation and the state commissioner for persons with Disabilities, Department of Social Welfare, Nagaland, reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity accessibility and empowerment for all.
Yokhase Sangtam, President Kiphire District Disability Association, delivered the keynote address and emphasized the need for collaborative efforts across departments to ensure that disability rights are upheld in all departmental initiatives.
Special Invitees Sienotho, CDPO Kiphire and Dr Tiakumzuk, MD Pathology, District Hospital Kiphire delivered their speech expressing appreciation for the ongoing initiatives and encouraged to continue advocacy to address barriers faced by the disable community. The speakers also emphasized on the available of scholarships and encouraged the community to avail the services and other benefits provided by the department
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Zhavito, EAC Kiphire emphasized on the public to become the best support system for the disabled community. He also encouraged the community to take opportunities and uplift the society.
The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks by Pisangla, KDDA member, where she also display the number of beneficiaries reached out by various schemes programs and incentives fostering better livelihood and inclusivity. The event features a special number by Tsalipa and Tsaruba The program was chaired by Rovila Sangtam, District Coordinator (BHI) Kiphire.
Shamator:
DC Shamator, Chubatemjen, with officials and participants during the International Day of Persons with Disabilities observed at Shamator
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities was observed at Shamator with the theme “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress.”
Deputy Commissioner Shamator, Chubatemjen, NCS in his address appreciated the significant contributions made by special individuals toward the growth and development of Shamator District. He acknowledged their resilience, dedication, and positive role in strengthening the social fabric of the district. Chubatemjen also apprised the PwD community of their fundamental rights, emphasizing that every person is equal and deserves dignity, opportunity, and inclusion. He reiterated the need for a society that removes barriers and fosters an enabling environment where persons with disabilities can actively participate in all spheres of life.
A presentation was made to the disabled persons by the District Programme Officer, Social Welfare, Shamator, as a gesture of recognition and encouragement.
On behalf of the Persons with Disabilities community, K Yinsoba Yimkhiung delivered a speech expressing gratitude to the district administration for organizing the programme. He also urged the Deputy Commissioner to explore possibilities for establishing an inclusive school in the district to ensure accessible and equitable education for children with special needs.
The programme concluded with a note of commitment from all stakeholders to work collectively toward building a more inclusive and progressive society in Shamator. The programme was held with active participation from persons with disabilities (PwDs), caregivers, officials, and dignitaries from various departments.
