Kohima: Nagaland on Wednesday observed the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, reaffirming the government’s commitment to creating a barrier-free and inclusive state.
The event, held at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama alongside the Hornbill Festival, was organised by the Department of Social Welfare and the Nagaland State Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NSCPD) under the theme “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress.”
Addressing the gathering, Social Welfare Advisor Wangpang Konyak said the Neiphiu Rio-led government is “fully committed to removing barriers and building a truly inclusive Nagaland.”
He said several initiatives are underway, including retrofitting government buildings, transport hubs and public spaces, and ensuring all new infrastructure adheres to universal design norms—ramps, elevators, tactile paths, accessible toilets and audio-visual signals.
He added that all government schools are being made barrier-free, with trained teachers, assistive devices and digital learning tools to ensure inclusive education.
Strict enforcement of job reservations and a shift from charity-based approaches to empowerment are among the state’s key priorities, he said.
Konyak also reaffirmed financial support for entrepreneurship among persons with disabilities, highlighting the Rs 1 crore corpus fund instituted in 2023.
Calling disability rights “human rights,” he said inclusion must become the state’s standard practice.
Delivering the keynote address, Limawabang Jamir, Secretary of the Social Welfare Department and State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, said observing the day at the Hornbill Festival venue added symbolic significance. This year’s theme, he noted, calls for systemic change.
Jamir emphasised that real progress is impossible without equal access and opportunities for every citizen. He acknowledged the contributions of district administrations, civil society organisations, advocates and caregivers who uphold the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities in Nagaland.
Recognising artists, entrepreneurs, performers and athletes with disabilities present at the programme, he said their achievements demonstrate that “ability, creativity and excellence know no boundaries.”
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On the occasion, the first financial assistance from the Chief Minister’s corpus fund—Rs 2 lakh each—was handed over to three young entrepreneurs with disabilities. The programme also featured performances, participation by persons with disabilities, video documentaries on model achievers and a disability pride fair.
