KUPWARA: The Social Welfare Department (SWD) Kupwara today organized a mega event to observe the ‘International Day of Persons with Disabilities’ at Environment Hall, Handwara. The event aimed to raise awareness about the challenges faced by persons with disabilities and promote their rights and inclusion in the society, including substance abuse prevention among them.
The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kupwara, Ayushi Sudan was chief guest on the occasion. The theme for this year's International Day of Persons with Disabilities is “Amplifying the leadership potential of the persons with disabilities for a sustainable and inclusive future”.
Persons with disabilities during the programme showcased their talent through singing, art, and SKIT competitions. Several speakers including Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) took the stage to address the audience and shed light on the significance of the day. They also spoke about their experiences and achievements.
Meanwhile, the DC reiterated the commitment of the Government to ensure the welfare of persons with disabilities. She highlighted the various measures implemented by the government to support and empower persons with disabilities. She further emphasized efforts are being made to create an inclusive environment where persons with disabilities can actively participate in society and contribute to its progress.
The DC also assured the participants of the establishment of a District Disability Rehabilitation Centre in the district for the welfare of the specially-abled community. Other speakers who spoke on the occasion include District Social Welfare Officer, Deputy Chief Education Officer Kupwara, Tehsildar Handwara, among others.
Three Children with special needs (CWSN) which include Razia Jan, Andaleeb Bashir and Zubair Zahooor were felicitated on the occasion for achieving distinction in the recently held Board exams. Performers of cultural programme were also felicitated for their outstanding performances. Sankalp- Hub for Empowerment of Women Mission Shakti distributed career guides and Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao educational kits to the distinction holders of 10th class results.
