Assistive devices provided to persons with disabilities in Dimapur

DIMAPUR — A total of 181 aids and assistive devices were distributed to 126 beneficiaries (persons with disabilities) belonging to Dimapur and Chumoükedima on Saturday at the District Disability Rehabilitation Centre Dimapur (DDRC), District Hospital Dimapur.

The Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/Fitting of Aids and Appliances (ADIP) camp was organised by the DDRC Dimapur and Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO), Guwahati, and supported by District Administration Dimapur and the National Career Service Centre for Differently Abled, Dimapur.

Speaking as the chief guest on the occasion, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang, Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur and Chairman of the District Management Team (DMT) at DDRC Dimapur, emphasised the significance of the camp in empowering disabled persons and enhancing their quality of life.

Tinojongshi expressed gratitude to the caregivers for their dedication and urged those present to inform others about the government-provided facilities. He also encouraged beneficiaries to obtain a disability certificate through assessment from the specialised board established at District Hospital, Dimapur.

He highlighted that Dimapur district is fortunate to have the centre and encouraged those present to raise awareness about registering and accessing the benefits available.

During her speech, Dr. Limatula Aier, Chief Medical Officer of Dimapur, noted that participation in such events was minimal in the past. She attributed the increased turnout to heightened awareness and improved understanding among the community.

She mentioned that in Nagaland the only functional DDRC is in Dimapur and urged the beneficiaries to spread the message to those who are not aware of the programme to get registered and avail of the benefits.

Mukesh Misra, manager and Northeast region in charge of ALIMCO, mentioned in his speech that assessments were conducted between September and October in Dimapur and Chumoükedima last year. During this period, 98 beneficiaries were identified in Dimapur, and 28 beneficiaries were identified in Chumoükedima.

Misra mentioned that the 181 appliances distributed to the beneficiaries were worth INR 11 lakh.

Dr. Imlitemsu Ozukum, MD (PMR) and senior specialist in charge of the DDRC, emphasised in his keynote address the objective of the ADIP scheme. He highlighted its role in assisting disabled individuals by providing durable, sophisticated, and scientifically manufactured aids and appliances.

He further mentioned that from 2016 until now, a total of 1613 disability certificates have been issued by DDRC Dimapur.