Constant efforts being made to create inclusive environment for SAPs across J&K: Sakeena
STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, reiterated the Government’s firm commitment to safeguarding the rights and needs of Specially Abled Persons (SAPs), emphasising that the administration led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is focused on building an inclusive, accessible and empowering environment across Jammu and Kashmir.She made these remarks while addressing a grand event at the Convention Centre to commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed under the theme “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress.”
In her address, the Minister stressed that empowerment, dignity and equal opportunity form the core of all government initiatives aimed at improving the lives of persons with disabilities. She noted that continuous efforts are being made to provide better facilities, especially for Children with Special Needs (CWSNs), ensuring they receive a supportive educational atmosphere.Sakeena Itoo highlighted the importance of community involvement and inter-departmental coordination, calling for a collective and compassionate approach aligned with global standards of universal inclusion. She instructed the Education and Social Welfare departments to conduct surveys to document achievements of persons with disabilities, adding that such success stories must be showcased in public events to inspire others.The Minister lauded students from various schools for their colourful cultural performances, urging them to remain strong, confident and undeterred by challenges. She reaffirmed that the present Government is “of the people and for the people” and remains committed to the upliftment and welfare of SAPs.Addressing the gathering, Minister for Youth Services & Sports, IT and Transport, Satish Sharma, said that equality must be upheld in every sector and assured that the Government is committed to providing equal opportunities for all specially abled individuals. He added that under NEP-2020, education has been made compulsory for CWSNs.Earlier, Secretary School Education, Ram Niwas Sharma, highlighted the significance of the day, dedicated to promoting the rights and needs of persons with disabilities.Specially abled children presented captivating cultural performances in multiple languages, earning heartfelt appreciation from the audience. Sakeena Itoo also inspected stalls showcasing innovative creations by CWSNs, commending their creativity and assuring full government support.
