Itanagar, Apr 28: Governor K T Parnaik on Monday called for a comprehensive review and mapping of children with special needs (CWSNs) in the state to formulate an impactful and inclusive policy for their welfare.
Inaugurating a two-day event organised to mark the ‘Awareness and Observation of Autism Month’ here, the governor emphasised the need for intensive sensitization programs for all stakeholder departments, especially education, health, social justice, and women and child development.
Highlighting the role of frontline workers, he stressed that they must be trained and encouraged to actively reduce stigma and foster a more inclusive, supportive environment for children with special needs and their families, an official communiqué informed.
Parnaik suggested the full implementation of inclusive education across all schools in the state, through the mandatory appointment of special educators, particularly during the early, formative years of a child’s education. He also proposed the establishment of government-run model special schools.
Further, he recommended that the health and social justice departments collaborate to standardize private centers and integrate them under the welfare programs provided by the state and central governments.
This, he said, would ensure therapy services are accessible, affordable, and maintained at a high standard for all children who need them.
During the inaugural event, Parnaik and Social Justice Minister Kento Jini distributed teaching and learning kits, aids, and appliances to children with special needs. They also interacted with parents, autistic children, educators, medical specialists, and caretakers from rehabilitation and special centers.
Speaking at the occasion, the governor described the event as a stepping stone toward an amplified understanding and celebration of neurodiversity. He referred to autistic children as the "shining stars" of Arunachal Pradesh, highlighting their unique talents, focus, and attention to detail.
He urged everyone to listen to autistic voices, learn from their experiences, and work toward ensuring equal opportunities in education, employment, and social participation.
Parnaik assured parents that the state government is committed to addressing their challenges and will go beyond the usual means to support them. He announced that Raj Bhavan will involve the ‘shining stars’ in all its programmes and plan special events for them.
As chancellor of the state’s universities, the governor also proposed the introduction of a PhD program dedicated to autism studies to promote meaningful research addressing the challenges of neurodiversity.
The governor commended the rehabilitation centers, special schools, and officials of the directorate of health services for their selfless service, providing vital support, guidance, and hope to individuals affected by autism.
He also appreciated Ratan Anya, chairperson of the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (APSCPCR), for her tireless efforts in pursuing issues related to child rights at the state level.
Minister Jini, while highlighting government responsibilities towards CWSNs, assured that all central and state schemes and programs supporting children with special needs will be implemented effectively to reach every household across the state.
APSCPCR chairperson Ratan Anya and Member Secretary Khoda Rakhi also spoke, underlining the challenges faced by children with autism and recommending steps for comprehensive support and inclusion.
The program featured a moving personal account by a parent of an autistic child, shedding light on the everyday challenges faced by families.
The two-day event is being organised by the APSCPCR in collaboration with the health department, National Institute of Locomotor Disabilities, and the Toko Rehabilitation Centre-cum-special school.
