Kargil, December 3: District Social & Tribal Welfare Department, Kargil today organised an International Day of Persons with Disabilities/ Ability Mela at Munshi Habibullah Mission Higher Secondary School (MHMHSS) Kargil. The event was held in collaboration with the Health Department, School Education Department, Rewa-na-Kasco, Baqirya Health Care & Research Centre (BHC&RC) Kargil ad Regional Art & Theatre Group (RaNTHAG).
Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Kargil, Imteeaz Kacho (JKAS), graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. CMO Kargil Dr Liyaqat Ali Khan; District Social Welfare Officer Kargil, Dr. Shahzad Sarwar (JKAS); Director MHMHSS; Assistant Director MHMHSS; Vice-President BHC&RC; Coordinator Rewa-na-Kasco and President, Truck Cooperatives Union Kargil, were also present on the occasion.
Specially-abled children performed a variety of performances, spreading a message of talent, resilience, and inclusivity. RaNTHAG presented a meaningful skit highlighting the creativity and capabilities of special children.
As part of its CSR initiative, the Truck Cooperatives Union Kargil handed over a cheque of ₹3.00 lakh to the District Social Welfare Officer Kargil to support welfare activities for specially-abled individuals.
While addressing the gathering, ADC Imteeaz Kacho lauded the initiative and emphasised that such children should be regarded as blessed rather than disabled. He highlighted various initiatives taken by LAHDC-Kargil and the District Administration for their welfare. He also narrated inspiring stories of specially-abled achievers, including references to scientific contributions like Stephen Hawking’s black hole theories underscoring that limitations do not define one’s capabilities. The ADC praised the children for their performances and stressed the importance of removing societal stigma. He also appreciated the superb performance of Kacho Ahmed Khan and Yawar Abbas of RaNTHAG and their team as well as their consistent efforts towards bring social evils to light through their stage and street acts.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Dr. Sarwar Shahzad informed that the DSWO-Kargil is planning to organise skill enhancement camps for special children, aimed not only at providing assistive devices but also equipping them with vocational skills to help them become financially independent.
Director MHMHSS, Gulzar Hussain, suggested stronger advocacy, rehabilitation measures and opportunities to empower specially-abled individuals to reach higher positions in society. He threw light on the activities and future plans of Rewa-na-Kasco as well as its history.
Later, Arif Hussain from Social Welfare Department concluded the programme with appreciation for all participating children, parents and collaborating departments for making the event a success
