Jharsuguda: The International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024 was observed at the MCSL Community Hall in Beheramal, organized jointly by the District Social Security and Disability Empowerment Department and the District Legal Services Authority. The event began with an awareness rally from the District Collector’s Office to the MCSL Community Hall. The rally was inaugurated by Additional District Collector Brajbandhu Bhuiyan and Kishore Chandra Swain, who hoisted the flag to mark the start of the event.
The chief guest of the program was District Collector Aboli Sunil Naravane, who participated alongside other dignitaries including Alokmaye Pradhan, Editor of the District Legal Services Authority, Additional District Collector (Revenue), and the District Child Protection Officer. The program was coordinated by Mitali Rana, Block Social Security Officer.
A special cultural performance by disabled students left the audience mesmerized, followed by a play based on the lives of people with disabilities, performed by the Mahima Kala Parishad. Additionally, a dance and music-based cultural program organized by Vivek Tandi was showcased.
The district’s four special schools for persons with disabilities – Jhadeshwari Special School, Budapada/Brundamal Special School, Prerana Special School and Belpahad/Asha Kiran Charitable Trust, as well as individuals from Dipupada and Mission Ashra and Mission Ashalok participated in the event.
Various sports activities like music chair, muruja, busta dian, spoon race, and painting competitions were held, where students excelling in these competitions were awarded prizes. Among the honored was Laxman Patela, a person with disabilities, who was recognized for donating blood 27 times.
Around 500 persons with disabilities and their caregivers attended the event. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by District Social Security Officer Punymati Helen Khes, who expressed gratitude to everyone for their participation. The entire event was made successful with the full cooperation of the staff from the Social Security Department.
