Dimapur/Nagaland: A disability leadership workshop was held at Tourist Lodge in Dimapur on April 13, organized by the Nagaland State Disability Forum (NSDF) in collaboration with the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (SCPD).

The event was attended by 63 people with disabilities from all districts and 14 other individuals, such as caregivers and resource persons.

The SCPD Nagaland, Diethono Nakhro, gave a presentation during the workshop on the provisions of the Rights to Persons with Disabilities Act 2016 (RPWD Act 2016) and its significance, stated The Morung Express.

During the workshop, Nakhro emphasized the significance of leaders within the disabled community and individuals with disabilities in general to have a comprehensive understanding and awareness of their rights, in order to gain access to various services, schemes, and provisions provided by the government.

"All disabled people must understand their rights to safeguard themselves from any type of possible discrimination and harassment in the society," Nakhro stated.

The State Commissioner also underlined the importance of education for persons with disabilities, as well as the need for advocacy to ensure the proper implementation of the various provisions of the RPwD Act. 

"The Office of State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities will continue to take all possible steps to safeguard and protect the rights of persons with disabilities in the state," assured Nakhro.

At the workshop, Khriezovonuo Lhoungu, SPM of NSRLM, served as a resource person and discussed the different opportunities and provisions available to persons with disabilities in Nagaland under NSRLM. 

She encouraged members of the disabled community to actively participate in these opportunities.

The President of NSDF, Vikengunu Fatima, explained the formation and functions of Disabled People's Organizations (DPOs), while Kezhaleto Zecho, a Senior Executive at NSDF, emphasized the necessity and significance of accessible sports facilities in Nagaland for athletes with disabilities.

Joint Secretary of NSDF, Ngaugongbe Hega, provided an overview of the Nagaland State Disability Forum, including its objectives, while Ashe H Kiba, Program Coordinator at the O/o State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (SCPD), discussed the realities that persons with disabilities face in Nagaland. 

The workshop concluded with an interactive session involving the participants.