News

Volume 4 Issue 1 - January 01, 2006

W.D.D. celeberations by N.D.N. partners in Jharkhand, Sikkim & Goa

D.N.I.S. News Network- Thousands of people from across the country participated in the World Disability Day (W.D.D.) celebrations on 3 December 2005. The year held a very special significance in India as it was the 10th year of passing of The Disability Act, 1995. The disability sector celebrated the Day with the common theme of “The tenth year of the Disability Act – It’s time for ACT10N”.

We had reported on the observance of W.D.D. -- in the 15 December issue of D.N.I.S. -- by National Disability Network (N.D.N.) partners. We now bring you reports on activities organised by partners in Jharkhand, Sikkim and Goa.

Deepshikha, an N.D.N. partner in district Ranchi (Jharkhand), celebrated W.D.D. by organising a weeklong programme called “Aahwan”. The objective of the programme was to spread awareness regarding the provisions of the Disability Act, 1995, and its non-implementation.

A ‘Walk to Freedom’ was organized which culminated at the Governor House. The document on 10 demands was presented to the Governor Syed Sibte Razi. A number of like-minded NGOs and disabled persons participated in the walk.

During the weeklong celebration, Solidarity Booths were put up, aimed at creating awareness and solidarity for disabled people among the masses. At the same time, painting competitions, outings and cultural programmes were also rganized.

The Spastic Society of Sikkim, N.D.N. partner from Sikkim, celebrated the event in collaboration with Sikkim Viklang Sahayata Samiti, National Association for Blind of Sikkim and the State Department of Social Justice, Empowerment and Welfare. Governor V. Rama Rao and Additional Chief Secretary, Planning Department, graced the occasion. The Governor emphasised on promotion of barrier-free environment and creation of awareness with regard to rights of disable people. Banners with the theme of barrier-free India were displayed at the venue.

The Goa Disability Network, in association with the Directorate of Social Welfare, celebrated W.D.D. at the Municipal Gardens with a variety entertainment programme, in Panaji. The Minister for Social Welfare, Subhash Shrodkar, was the Chief Guest. He called upon the NGOs for active participation in advocacy activities.