Sikkim calls for united action to end discrimination against persons with disabilities

The State Advisory Board for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) held its meeting at Chintan Bhawan, chaired by Hon’ble Minister for Social Welfare Department and Area MLA of 31-Lachen Mangan Constituency, Samdup Lepcha. The meeting served as a crucial platform to deliberate on pressing issues related to inclusion, accessibility, and implementation of welfare schemes for persons with disabilities in Sikkim.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Samdup Lepcha stressed the urgent need for collective societal efforts to eliminate discrimination faced by PwDs. He advocated for continuous awareness and sensitization campaigns to change mindsets and create an enabling environment. "Accessibility and inclusivity must not remain as policies on paper. They should translate into action on the ground so that persons with disabilities can live with dignity and participate fully in all aspects of life—social, economic, and cultural," he remarked.

Earlier, Principal Director-cum-Secretary Normit Lepcha called for a shift in public perception, emphasizing the need to acknowledge the potential and contributions of persons with disabilities rather than viewing them through a lens of limitations. His address underscored the importance of a compassionate and rights-based approach in policy and program implementation.

A comprehensive PowerPoint presentation was delivered by Additional Secretary Tashi Choden Bhutia, reviewing the status of existing welfare schemes. The presentation highlighted the progress made in issuing disability certificates, extending financial support, providing educational opportunities, and improving infrastructure. However, it also drew attention to critical gaps—particularly the need for improved infrastructure in special schools and shelter homes, and the pressing requirement for synergy among departments to build a truly inclusive ecosystem.

The meeting brought forth several key recommendations, notably the urgent recruitment of special educators, better digital and physical infrastructure for accessibility, and systems for early identification and intervention. Participants reiterated the importance of implementing the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016 in letter and spirit, especially with regard to reservation provisions and timely delivery of benefits.

District-specific inputs were provided by officials from Gangtok, Pakyong, and Namchi, offering insights into local challenges and possible solutions. These inputs reflected a shared resolve to overcome existing obstacles through collaboration and sustained effort.