Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 27 October 2024
The Composite Regional Centre for Skill Development, Rehabilitation & Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (CRC) in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, in collaboration with the Directorate of Social Welfare, organized a successful Disability Screening Camp-cum-Awareness Programme at the Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Campbell Bay.
The event was inaugurated by Dr. Keshav Narendra Singh, Assistant Commissioner of Campbell Bay, who commended the efforts of the CRC and the Directorate of Social Welfare in reaching out to the island’s remote populations.
In her welcome address, Ms. Sumithamol, Director of CRC A&N Islands, highlighted the significance of outreach programs in ensuring that Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) can access essential services and welfare schemes.
The programme was attended by several distinguished guests, including Mr. E. S. Rajesh, Pramukh; Dr. Irene, Medical Officer at PHC Campbell Bay; Mr. Barnabas, Chairman of the Tribal Council for Great and Little Nicobar; and local leaders such as Mrs. Rameshwari, Pradhan of Campbell Bay, Mr. Venkat Rao, Pradhan of Govind Nagar, Mr. Prahlad Singh, Pradhan of Laxmi Nagar, and Ms. Brindha, Mukhiya Sevika of Campbell Bay.
The event saw enthusiastic participation from 150 individuals, including PwDs, family members, and community stakeholders. The Disability Screening Camp offered free assessments conducted by Rehabilitation Professionals. Approximately 70 participants were screened for various disabilities, including mobility, hearing, vision impairments, and intellectual disabilities. Eligible beneficiaries received assistive devices on the spot, while further referrals were made for specialised interventions.
Anganwadi workers played a crucial role in gathering participants and disseminating information among the public.
During the awareness programme, attendees learned about vital welfare schemes such as Niramaya Health Insurance, scholarships for PwDs, the Assistance for Purchase of Aids and Appliances (ADIP), and employment opportunities through the PM-Daksh initiative. Practical guidance on accessing these schemes was provided by Mr. T.Y. Abid, Lecturer in Physiotherapy at CRC A&N, and Ms. Janifa, Block Resource Person from PM Shri GSSS Campbell Bay.
The successful execution of this camp reflects a commitment to improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.