Voluntary Medicare Society celebrates ‘International Day of Persons with Disabilities’

Reaffirms its commitment to uphold the dignity, rights, and empowerment of persons with disabilities, and to continue working towards building an inclusive and compassionate society.

STC NEWS DESK
SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 04 (STC): Voluntary Medicare Society (VMS), A Non Governmental Organisation established in 1970 working for the comprehensive rehabilitation of persons with disabilities, celebrated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities with great enthusiasm, inclusivity, and public participation at its Bemina premises in Srinagar. The event brought together students, parents, persons with disabilities, medical professionals, legal authorities, partner organizations, and members of civil society, highlighting the collective commitment to empower persons with disabilities and promote equal opportunities.
Founder-President of VMS, Prof. (Dr.) Mir Mohammad Maqbool, in his inaugural address reflected on the organization’s longstanding journey in rehabilitation, education and support services for children and adults with disabilities. This was followed by a soulful Tilawat-e-Quran by students with visual impairment, setting a dignified tone for the day.
Students from Shafaqat Special/Inclusive school presented a powerful skit titled “Right to Shine,” emphasizing confidence, dignity, and the right of every child
to dream and achieve. A colourful and graceful cultural ramp walk titled “Diversity in Cultures” showcased India’s traditional attire and the students’ enthusiasm in celebrating multiculturalism.
The event featured a detailed presentation by the Guest of Honour, Prof (Dr) Altaf Kawoosa, HOD Bone and Joint Hospital reflecting on his 25 years long work on correcting disabilities with different techniques including Ilizarov techniques with modifications in different kinds of disabilities emphasising the role of surgical interventions in enabling PwDs & promoting their inclusivity in the society. He also appreciated the quality of rehabilitation services provided by VMS. He stressed the importance of early intervention, multidisciplinary therapy and collective responsibility in supporting children/adults with special needs.
The Chief Guest of the event, Ms. Mehreen Mushtaq, Additional Special Judge Anti- Corruption Srinagar, delivered a deeply insightful address focusing on the legal rights of PwDs as laid down in the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016. She highlighted key provisions of the Act and stressed the need for stronger implementation, greater awareness among stakeholders, and societal support to ensure accessibility, dignity, and full participation of individuals with disabilities.
Dr. Fazlul Qadir Parray, Principal SKIMS Medical College and Hospital Bemina, spoke about the significance of bridging gaps between clinical treatment and long-term rehabilitation. He commended VMS for being a crucial link in providing continuous care and enhancing quality of life for beneficiaries.
The programme was also attended by noted Neurologist, Dr. Irfan Shah, of GMC Srinagar/SMHS Srinagar, representatives of the District Legal Services Authority including Secretary and Sub Judge Ms.Tabassum Parray; representatives of J&K Bank, Rahim Greens, representatives from Directorate of Health services Kashmir and PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industries and others.
A creative and inspiring exhibition titled “Hands of Hope” showcased vocational products prepared by students of SSS/SIS, reflecting their skills, creativity, and progress under structured vocational training. Students later presented another impactful skit titled “Acceptance Before Expectation,” conveying an important message about empathy, understanding and the need for society to embrace diversity without prejudice. The Speech Therapist of Shafaqat School presented a case report showing how the therapy helped child with delayed milestone of speech to speak. A moving success story was shared by a student from the OPD unit, demonstrating resilience and the transformative role of timely therapeutic intervention.
On the occasion Director of VMS, Dr. Bashir, informed about the signing of an MOU with Rahim Greens as training partners aimed at enhancing livelihood opportunities and strengthening empowerment programmes PwDs.
As part of the celebrations, a special award ceremony was held in which outstanding students were felicitated for their achievements in academics, sports, cultural performance, therapy progress, and vocational skills. Organisers, teachers, therapists, and coordinators who contributed significantly to the success of the event were also felicitated, along with staff members whose dedication ensured the smooth conduct of the programme.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Farooq Ahmad Kaloo, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, partnering institutions, parents, teachers, and the VMS family for their valuable participation, encouragement, and support.
VMS expressed heartfelt gratitude to Amigos for generously sponsoring the food arrangements for the event, making the celebration even more special and memorable for the children and participants. The celebration reaffirmed the commitment of VMS to uphold the dignity, rights, and empowerment of persons with disabilities, and to continue working towards building an inclusive and compassionate society where every individual is given the opportunity to participate and flourish.
(Straight Talk Communications)