Pledges for inclusive participation and empowerment

Pampore: In a vibrant celebration of diversity and inclusion, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities was commemorated in Palash Children Home Pampore. The event, organized by the Social Welfare department Pulwama and community groups, emphasized the importance of inclusive participation for individuals with disabilities. The festivities included a variety of activities such as sports events, cricket, recitation, chess, and carrom board competitions.
Specially-abled individuals showcased their talents in various fields, sending a powerful message about their capabilities and potential. On this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Palaash Patalbagh in Pampore echoed with a commitment to a people-centered approach, aiming for the full and effective participation of individuals with disabilities. The event, graced by the presence of ADDC Pulwama Dr. Abdul Aziz and DSWO Pulwama Azhar Amin, showcased various initiatives fostering inclusion. ZPEO Masrat Hussain Andrabi, District Mission Coordinator Mansha Ahad, and officers were also present on the occasion.
Recitation, Cricket Tournament, as well as chess and carrom board competitions, took center stage as participants from Pampore engaged in spirited contests. The vibrant atmosphere was heightened by the active involvement of officials from the Department of Social Welfare, DHEW, OSC, Palaash, and members from Disability Associations of Pulwama, Tral, and Pampore.
The commemoration served as a day of commitment, emphasizing the need for an efficient delivery mechanism to ensure that no one is left behind. The initiatives undertaken in Pampore align with the broader goals of the 2030 agenda and other development frameworks, aiming to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
The event marked a significant step forward in fostering awareness and action towards the empowerment and integration of persons with disabilities, reaffirming the collective commitment to building a more inclusive future for all.
Speaking to Kashmir Reader, Javaid Ahmad Naikoo, the district icon of Pulwama Handicapped Association, expressed his happiness, saying, “I am very pleased that we have been invited today, and we want to see the talent that each individual possesses. I am very grateful to LG sahab and the district administration for organizing this programme here.”
Speaking to Kashmir Reader, ADDC Pulwama Abdul Aziz said that today’s programme has been organized by the entire UT government. Sports activities took place on December 28 and December 29 for our specially-abled individuals. The event, held at Palash Institute in Pampore, was organized by the Social Welfare department in collaboration with district administration support. He mentioned that a cricket match was played today with two teams—one from Tral and the other from Pulwama. Similarly, there was a competition in kerrom and chess, and a tug of war took place. The primary goal is to showcase that our specially-abled individuals are no less capable, and it’s evident by witnessing them here. I believe that the determination within these specially-abled individuals, coupled with consistent support from the government, is propelling them forward. They are keeping pace and even surpassing physically fit individuals, highlighting the ongoing support and determination prevailing in these remarkable individuals.

BILAL HABIB