Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, November 17 2010:
The nationwide endeavour Badhte Kadam, a Central government's awareness campaign for the rights of the patients of mental retardation, mental illness, cerebral palsy and autism will be conducted in the state too across eight districts starting from November 19 to 26 .
The nationwide massive awareness campaign of National trust, a statutory body under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment was launched on November 14 last and the campaign will be conducted eight districts starting from November 19, said Spastic Society of Manipur director Sushma Rajput briefing to reporters at a press conference held at Manipur Press Club today.
"The objective of the campaign is to bring a fresh new perspective that would help people with disability live as one among us, with as much rights and responsibilities of course with some support.
It also related with drawing attention of all to the rights of people with disabilities as stated in the United Nation Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), she said.
Spastic Society of Manipur, a voluntary agency is coordinating the campaign in eight districts of the state in collaboration with state government.
Assam Rifles are also part of the caravan, she said.
The caravan, a part of the campaign, will be visiting the eight districts starting from Imphal west district on November 19 at BOAT.
The district-wise break up of the programme is Churachandpur (November 20 at New Lamka), Chandel (November 21 at St Paul School, Komlathabi), Senapati (November 22 at Town hall), Bishnupur (November 23 at INA Auditorium, Moirang), Thoubal (November 24 at Chouyaima ground), Ukhrul (November 25 at Town hall) and Imphal East (November 26 at ICD groun, Lakhipur, Jiribam) .
Chief Minister O Ibobi will flag off the caravan on November 19 at BOAT and creating awareness regarding various issues of disability including causes, identification, census, inclusive education, paralympic and special Olympic sports, schemes and benefits through photo and poster exhition, display of aids and appliances used by disabled persons, simulation games, talent hunt, essay writing, art competition and signature campaign are the main highlight of the caravan.
Sarita Gazmir, Sadananda, Mandakini, Sunita Nepram, Guru Rewben are all part of the caravan, Sushma said.