Guwahati: As part of efforts to promote mobility and livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities, a free distribution of e-cycles for persons with orthopaedic disabilities was held at the Directorate of Social Justice and Empowerment, Beltola, on January 10.
The programme was organised by Samadrishti, Kshamata Vikas Evam Anusandhan Mandal (SAKSHAM), North Assam, with support from Altius, under the themes “Saksham Bharat – Samarth Bharat” and “Livelihood on Wheels – Saksham Ek Nayi Udaan”.
Nine persons with disabilities from different parts of Assam received electric tricycles during the event.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Arup Jyoti Kalita, secretary of SAKSHAM North Assam, said improved mobility was key to ensuring dignity, self-reliance and access to livelihood opportunities for Divyangjan, while also enabling greater participation in social life.
Chief guest Dr Lanu Aimul, director of CRC Guwahati, NIRTAR, Government of India, highlighted the importance of mobility aids in rehabilitation and social integration, and commended SAKSHAM for its focused initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life of persons with orthopaedic disabilities.
Speaking on behalf of the organisation at the national level, SAKSHAM Sangathan Mantri Chandrasekhar outlined its vision and ongoing work in Assam, particularly in rehabilitation, capacity building, advocacy and assistive support for persons with disabilities.
Altius Circle CEO Dibyajyoti Khound said the initiative should be seen as an investment in human potential rather than a welfare measure, noting that the e-cycles would help beneficiaries access education, employment, healthcare and community spaces with greater independence.
ALSO READ: FKJGP urges immediate arrests in murder of ACHIK NGO member
Among others, Dr Navajyoti Bora, principal of Dispur College, praised the collaboration between SAKSHAM and Altius and called for stronger partnerships between government institutions and civil society to advance disability-inclusive development.
RSS Guwahati Mahanagar Sangha Chalak Rukma Bhuyan Saha, who chaired the programme, stressed the role of community engagement in empowering persons with disabilities.
The event also included hands-on orientation and training for beneficiaries on operating the electric tricycles.
The programme concluded with closing remarks by SAKSHAM North Assam president Manuj Tamuli and a vote of thanks by Mithun Roy, Prabhari, SAKSHAM North East.
