Sakeena Itoo Pledges Inclusive Support for Specially Abled in Jammu Kashmir | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, on Wednesday reaffirmed the Jammu and Kashmir Government’s commitment to creating an inclusive and accessible environment for Specially Abled Persons (SAPs), stating that empowerment, dignity, and equal opportunity remain central to all government programmes.

Speaking at a grand event at the Convention Centre to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, under the theme “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” the Minister said the Omar Abdullah-led Government has been making constant efforts to address the rights and needs of persons with disabilities across the Union Territory.

“The Government is consistently working to ensure that persons with disabilities receive the support, care, and opportunities they rightfully deserve,” she said, highlighting improvements in facilities for Children with Special Needs (CWSNs) in schools to provide a conducive learning environment.

The Minister called for community participation and inter-departmental coordination to enable persons with disabilities to lead independent and fulfilling lives. She also urged the Education and Social Welfare Departments to conduct a detailed survey of the achievements of persons with disabilities to inspire others.

During the event, specially abled school children showcased cultural performances in Kashmiri, Hindi, Dogri, Punjabi, Shina, Pahari and other languages, which were widely appreciated. Minister Itoo also inspected stalls set up by various government schools, displaying innovative projects created by CWSNs, and assured full government support for their initiatives.

Addressing the gathering, Minister for Youth Services and Sports, IT and Transport, Satish Sharma, emphasised the Government’s commitment to equal opportunities for all specially abled persons, adding that under NEP-2020, education has been made compulsory for children with special needs.

In his welcome address, Secretary School Education, Ram Niwas Sharma, highlighted the significance of the day in promoting the rights and needs of persons with disabilities.

The event witnessed a large gathering of officials, educators, students, and members of social organisations, celebrating the achievements and potential of specially abled individuals across Jammu and Kashmir.