STATE TIMES NEWS
LEH: The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, inaugurated the Ability Mela 2025 at the Panchayat Resource Centre, Leh, marking the observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025. Organised by the District Social Welfare Office (DSWO) in collaboration with PAGIR, Munsel, and Rewa Society, the event aims to enhance employability, promote dignified livelihoods, and strengthen Ladakh’s commitment to an inclusive and accessible society.
Addressing a large gathering of participants, officials, community representatives, and civil society members, the Lt Governor stressed that the day must be seen not just as a yearly observance but as a reminder of the collective responsibility to uphold equality, dignity, and respect for all. He stated that ability is defined not by physical limitations but by determination, discipline, and aspiration. Commending Ladakh’s divyangjans for their resilience in overcoming the region’s tough climate and terrain, he praised their spirit and achievements.
Highlighting the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for empowering persons with disabilities, Gupta reiterated the UT Administration’s commitment to providing accessible infrastructure, quality education, skill development, healthcare, rehabilitation services, and meaningful socio-economic participation.
He urged society to move beyond symbolism and ensure sustained, practical measures that create barrier-free environments and equal opportunities.
He outlined key initiatives such as scholarships, livelihood programmes, self-employment support, assistive devices, and the enforcement of equal-opportunity norms across departments. Calling upon the youth to become role models, he cited inspiring divyang achievers and encouraged young people to convert challenges into opportunities.
As part of the celebration, the Lt Governor distributed tri-scooters, hearing aids, and Braille devices under the Kuns-nyoms scheme. He also felicitated Sonam Sopari, Dorjay Stakmo, and Sonam Angchuk, associated with the Tses-Ngon video featuring divyang individuals, and visited stalls showcasing products, scholarships, pensions, and welfare initiatives of DSWO and CSOs.
Administrative Secretary Shashanka Ala presented a status report of PwDs in Ladakh, noting that the region has around 4,223 PwDs, many requiring inclusive education and employability training. She highlighted planned employment opportunities in the hospitality sector and outlined ongoing reforms and interventions.
Administrative Secretary Bhanu Prabha announced upcoming skilling programmes for PwDs at ITIs and emphasised early identification of children with special needs, informing about the upcoming special school at Trespone costing Rs 7 crore. Representatives from PAGIR and other organisations expressed gratitude to the Administration for its inclusive efforts. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by DSWO Leh, Mohd Safdar Bhat.