The first ever regional meet of the parents of Divyangjan (persons with disability) organized by Arunachal Pradesh Parents Association for Disabled (APPAD) has raised many pertinent points which are proving a challenge for persons living with disability to lead a dignified existence.
Inadequate infrastructure and poor support aside; it is sad that despite progress of society, majority of people with disabilities (PWD) still feel alienated from mainstream. Apathy and stigma are also common whereas it is care and compassion which is needed. The only way to break this cycle is by ensuring that the differently abled are empowered enough to live with dignity.
Poverty and disability have a cause and effect relationship with one thing leading to another. Poverty-disability combination leads to a condition of “Simultaneous deprivation”. So until and unless people with special needs are provided with education they will not be able to gain financial independence and the real kind of rehabilitation will not take place.
The Pema Khandu government recently announced to hike the pension for differently abled people under Chief Ministers Disability Pension Scheme. He also acknowledged successive government’s failure to fully implement the 5% job quota for the disabled.
The CM’s admittance is proof that though welfare policies exist, their implementation is slack and poorly executed. Though many schemes have been launched and heightened general awareness, the plight of children with special needs have not received many of the benefits. A lot remains to be done.
It is easy to lay down rules but understanding the mindset of children with special needs and their parents is of prime importance. One cannot even begin to imagine what a parent must go through on a daily basis dealing with such a situation.
Governments must rethink about the financial support extended and see if they really help in these changed times.
As per the Integrated Education of Disabled Children (IEDC) Scheme the transport and escort allowance is up to Rs. 300 per month per child, frankly which amounts to nothing in this day and age. If more children including their parents are to be drawn into this fold then authorities need to provide a decent amount for their upkeep and motivation.
The need of the hour is for assessing and reworking on gaining the best for these children. After all isn’t that what the state and parents want, their welfare.