JAMMU: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, today said that the Government led by Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, is very particular about the rights and needs of specially abled persons and constant efforts are being made to create an inclusive and accessible environment for Specially Abled Persons (SAPs) across Jammu and Kashmir.
The Minister stated this while addressing a grand event held at Convention Centre here to commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, under the theme ‘Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress’.
Addressing the gathering, Sakeena Itoo reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to creating an inclusive and accessible environment for persons with disabilities, highlighting that empowerment, dignity, and equal opportunity remain at the core of all programmes undertaken by the Government.
“The Government is consistently working to ensure that persons with disabilities receive the support, care, and opportunities they rightfully deserve,” Minister Sakeena said.
She underlined that Government is consistently improving the facilities for Children with Special Needs (CWSNs) in schools to ensure a conducive atmosphere for their educational purposes.
The Minister also stressed the importance of community participation and inter-departmental coordination in enabling persons with disabilities to lead independent and fulfilling lives. She called on all stakeholders to maintain a collective and compassionate approach, aligned with global best practices and the principles of universal inclusion.
She called upon the education department and social welfare department to conduct a detailed survey regarding the achievements of persons with Disabilities, adding that such achievements need to be highlighted in events like these to inspire others.
Appreciating the Specially Abled Children of various schools for presenting colourful cultural performances, Minister Sakeena asked them to consider themselves stronger than their challenges and never consider disability as an obstacle to success.
The Minister further highlighted that the present Government led by Omar Abdullah is of the people and for the people, the Government will do everything for the upliftment of Specially Abled Persons.
Addressing the gathering, Minister for Youth Services and Sports, IT and Transport, Satish Sharma said that equality must be championed in every sector and this Government remains committed to giving equal opportunities for all specially abled persons. He added that under NEP-2020, education has been made compulsory for Children with Special Needs.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Secretary School Education, Ram Niwas Sharma, highlighted the significance of this event, adding that this day is dedicated to promoting rights and needs of persons with disability.
During the event, the specially abled school children of various schools presented mesmerizing cross regional cultural performances in Kashmiri, Hindi, Dogri, Punjabi, Shina, Pahari and other languages, which was highly appreciated and recognised by the audience.
Earlier, Sakeena Itoo also inspected stalls established by various Government Schools of Jammu showcasing innovative products and projects created by Children with Special Needs.
The Minister interacted with them and commended them for their innovative ideas in making these unique products. She assured them all possible assistance and support from the Government.