Correspondent
KOHIMA, OCTOBER 22
LARGELY neglected in the past decades from social privileges, “differently abled” persons (a term local NGOs use to describe persons with disabilities) of Nagaland has now a reason to be hopeful. The government is likely to enhance the job reservation for them from the existing 3% to 5%.The benefit was announced by the Commissioner for Disability Dr. Atha Vizol during the five-day medical camp and health fair held for persons with disabilities which got underway here Tuesday in the premises of the Naga Hospital Authority Kohima.
The programme is organized by the Nagaland Parents’ Association for the Disabled (NAPAD) in collaboration with the departments of Health & Family Welfare and Social Welfare, sponsored by the National Trust.
Speaking to media person on the sidelines of the function, Commissioner Vizol disclosed that job reservation for persons with disabilities, which is currently at 3% reservation, is likely to be enhanced to 5% in the near future.
The health fair is being held to enable the disabled persons to avail medical check up and certification. He said identity cards are ‘very important’ as they would be issued to any “differently abled” person who wants to avail assistance and facilities such as transportation and job benefits.
While stating that Nagaland’s rate of disability is the second-least in India, 26,499 persons, as per 2001 census, Dr. Atha underscored the need for sensitizing people and creating awareness on the rights of the disabled in the state at a greater level. The annual national awareness programme ‘Badhte Kadam’ has been effective to certain extent in that context, he said. This year’s ‘Badhte Kadam’ is scheduled to be held from November 6 to December 7.
Altogether, 82 persons with disabilities attended the first day of the medical camp. Principal Director for Health and Family Welfare Dr. Neiphi Kire, and the Managing Director of NHAK Dr. Vikeyie Losou, were also present during the event. They have lauded the NAPAD for conducting the much-needed program. The medical camp will be conducted in various zones under Kohima district for the next four days.
