Guwahati: The International Day of Persons with Disabilities was observed with unity, cultural spirit and widespread community participation across Nagaon and Lakhimpur districts on Tuesday. Both districts organised programmes that highlighted inclusion, dignity, accessibility and empowerment for specially-abled individuals.
In Nagaon, the central programme was held at the Loksevak Holodhar Bhuyan Auditorium, organised by the District Disability Rehabilitation Centre (DDRC) under Srimanta Sankar Mission, with support from the Nagaon District Administration, Social Welfare Department and the District Disabled Association.
The observance began with a Swachh Bharat Abhiyan drive, followed by the hoisting of the association’s flag by president Alal Uddin Ahmed. Competitions for persons with disabilities added joy and boosted participation.
The formal open session, presided over by Srimanta Sankar Mission president and former minister Girindra Kumar Baruah, emphasised the importance of creating a supportive environment for specially-abled individuals. In his keynote speech, Samaguri College Principal Dr. Indrajit Bezbaruah stressed that persons with disabilities should be recognised for their abilities rather than viewed with sympathy.
District Social Welfare Officer Bholanath Pegu, DLSA Secretary Munmi Neog and other dignitaries spoke on the need for accessibility and social responsibility.
Over a hundred persons with disabilities attended, and two beneficiaries received wheelchairs from the Social Welfare Department. Winners of competitions were also felicitated.
A parallel event organised by Sadou Asom Gramya Puthibharal Santha in collaboration with Navjeevan Special Children’s Home and Special Adoption Centre featured an inaugural address by ADC Debahuti Bora. The programme highlighted government schemes and included cultural performances, a short play and a commemorative cake-cutting by MLA Rupak Sharma, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive welfare.
In Lakhimpur, the District Education Department held a programme at Lakhimpur Town Model Primary School with active participation from children, teachers and officials. Competitions were conducted to encourage creativity and confidence among children with disabilities.
A health camp provided medical check-ups and raised awareness about disability-related health issues.
Chief guest and Lakhimpur MLA Manab Deka assured continued efforts to ensure dignity, rights and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.
Superintendent of Police Gunendra Nath Deka, Inspector of Schools Hemchandra Saikia, ADC Kukila Gogoi and BEEO Injamul Hussain also attended, encouraging students and stressing the role of the community in building inclusive educational spaces.
Large numbers of teachers, parents and residents took part, making the event an important step in spreading awareness and strengthening support for specially-abled individuals in the district.
Across Nagaon and Lakhimpur, the celebrations sent out a strong message of inclusivity, dignity and empowerment. With cultural performances, awareness drives, health initiatives and community involvement, both districts reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities receive equal opportunities and recognition in society.