Kochi, 17 August(HS) : An impressive and disciplined staged by Divyangis (persons with physical disabilities) at Perumbavoor in Ernakulam district turned out to be a delightful show on Sunday.
The rally “Divyang Family Swabhiman Rally” held under SAKSHAMA (Samadrishti, Kshamathaavikas Mandal), an organization engaged in the welfare of Divyangis saw nearly 500 persons taking party in the parade defying the threat posed by Monsoon Rains.
“This rally, in which Divyangis from Ernakulam district took part, was held to highlight some of the burning issues faced by them and create awareness among the general public about the need to integrate them into mainstream. Though many divyangis have excelled in their professional areas, much needs to be done to resolve some of the problems they encounter in life,” said K C Muraleedharan, senior lawyer and the moving force behind SAKSHAMA activities.
He stated that SAKSHAMA was working wholeheartedly to identify and encourage the inherent qualities present in Divyangis and bring them on par with people without any physical challenges. Some of the demands put forward by the Divyangs include the hike of Niramaya Insurance (an affordable health insurance scheme for them) from the present Rs 1,00,000 to Rs 5,00,000, creation of more job opportunities for the Divyangs, launching of skill development schemes exclusively for them, appointment of full time special teachers in all schools and revival of Aashwas Kiran scheme ( monthly financial assistance to caregivers who look after physically and mentally bedridden patients)
Divyangs like Kochu Pradeep ( film and TV actor), Ridhamol, who graduated in music despite her physical disabilities and Sali George , a psychologist giving training to mentally challenged children to make them self-reliant.
Addressing the Divyangs, N C Induchoodan, former conservator of forests, said that there are opportunities in new India for them to excel not only as professionals but as entrepreneurs too. He gave a detailed account of divyang entrepreneurs who have employed thousands of normal persons across India.
“You should learn about Srikant Bolla, who was born visually impaired in a poor family and rose to set up the Bollant Industries which has employed thousands of people. Instead of job seekers, you should be job providers,” said Induchoodan.
Celebrities including Indira Rajan representing governing board of central schools, T Jawahar, K Anil Kumar (Human Rights Forum), took part in the congregation.
Abdul Hameed, a divyang, told H S that it was a rare event as this was the first of its kind meeting attended by him.
“There were people from all walks of life cutting across caste, community and religions. It was an inspiring event an this has given us a morale boost,” said Hameed.
Hindusthan Samachar / Manohar Yadavatti
