SHILLONG, FEB 12: Meghalaya Governor CH Vijayashankar on Thursday felicitated ten outstanding persons with disabilities at a programme jointly organized by the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Social Welfare and Lok Bhavan.
Those being felicitated include Ferdinand Lyngdoh Marshillong, Anjelina Tynhiang, Simseng M. Sangma, Willingson Manar, Shri Orphon Nongrum, Shanborlang Siangshai, Madhu Subedhi, Keneddy Rynjah, Jepora T. Sangma and Pillbert Hanse.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor commended the awardees for their indomitable spirit and stated that their achievements serve as a powerful reminder that disability is not a limitation but a mark of strength and courage.
The Governor also underscored the importance of identifying the root causes of disabilities and strengthening preventive measures. He emphasized that while empowerment and inclusion remain essential, equal attention must be given to early detection, awareness, timely medical intervention, maternal and child healthcare, road safety, and preventive public health strategies to reduce avoidable disabilities.
He called upon all concerned departments to adopt a proactive and coordinated approach to prevention, alongside rehabilitation and support.
The Governor noted that India, as a signatory and ratifying nation to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), has reaffirmed its commitment to uphold the dignity, rights and full participation of persons with disabilities.
The Governor further emphasized that true progress of a society is measured by how it treats its most vulnerable members. He noted that the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 provides a strong legal foundation for ensuring equality, accessibility and non-discrimination, and called upon all stakeholders – government departments, institutions, civil society and citizens – to work together to translate the spirit of the Act into meaningful action on the ground. He encouraged the awardees to continue striving for excellence and assured them of the State’s continued support.
In his welcome address, Principal Secretary HC Choudhary highlighted the importance of inclusivity and empowerment of persons with disabilities in building a just and equitable society.
Commissioner & Secretary Pravin Bakshi, underlined the State Government’s commitment towards effective implementation of welfare measures under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
Chief Adviser, Meghalaya State Paralympics Association Himalaya M. Shangpliang in his address appreciated the resilience and achievements of the awardees and reaffirming collective efforts to strengthen accessibility and opportunity.
