How Should Society Treat Specially Abled Individuals? President Murmu Weighs In
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Synopsis
In a heartfelt address, President Droupadi Murmu emphasizes the need for society to engage with specially abled individuals through empathy and collaboration. Her insights at the AIISH Diamond Jubilee Celebrations shed light on the importance of innovation, awareness, and support, aiming for a more inclusive future for all.
Key Takeaways
- Empathy and cooperation are crucial for supporting specially abled individuals.
- Early detection of speech and hearing issues is essential for effective intervention.
- Institutions like AIISH should lead in developing accessible technologies.
- The Sugamya Bharat Abhiyaan aims to empower specially abled persons.
- Raising public awareness is vital for fostering a supportive environment.
Mysuru (Karnataka), Sep 1 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu urged that society should engage with specially abled individuals through understanding and collaboration.
During her inaugural speech at the All India Institute of Speech and Hearing’s (AIISH) ‘Diamond Jubilee Celebrations’ held in Mysuru, she stated, “As with various health challenges, speech and hearing difficulties necessitate prompt recognition of symptoms and expert diagnosis. Furthermore, raising awareness is crucial for fostering a cooperative and empathetic community towards those affected.”
President Murmu underscored the importance of institutions like AIISH to embrace a culture of innovation intertwined with compassion, creating technologies that empower individuals with speech and hearing impairments to lead fulfilling lives and actively participate in society and the economy.
“To make devices, such as cochlear implants, more affordable, achieving self-sufficiency in their production is vital. Institutions like AIISH should spearhead this initiative. Research indicates that over 6 crore individuals in India were affected by hearing disorders in 2023. AIISH serves as a pivotal center for the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Deafness,” she mentioned.
“Similar to other health conditions, early detection and intervention for speech and hearing issues are imperative. Expert guidance is crucial, and societal compassion and cooperation must be directed towards those impacted, necessitating increased awareness,” she continued.
“I am pleased with AIISH's impactful role in this domain. Previously, I had the honor of presenting a national award to AIISH for its contributions to the empowerment of specially abled individuals. The institute should persist in its mission to emerge as a model organization, both nationally and internationally,” Murmu remarked.
“It is encouraging to see that the inclusive therapy model developed by AIISH has gained national and international recognition, particularly for children facing communication challenges. AIISH can also play a significant part in shaping national policies related to communication disorders,” she advised.
“In today's world, technology holds a critical place in various sectors. Addressing speech and hearing challenges necessitates the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, which must be made accessible to the public,” she asserted.
“I believe that the alumni of the institute should also assist in achieving these objectives. The Indian government is committed to ensuring that specially abled individuals can lead confident lives and pursue progress through unique initiatives like the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyaan, which aims to provide equal opportunities and development for all,” she added.
“Public facilities must be equipped to accommodate specially abled individuals, promoting a supportive environment. World Sign Language Day on September 23 serves as a platform to enhance awareness about sign language; we should leverage this opportunity to further enrich sign language and develop technologies that allow specially abled individuals to contribute meaningfully to society and the economy,” President Murmu stated.
“For the past two decades, AIISH has been under female leadership, currently headed by Dr. M. Pushpavathi. This institution exemplifies women-led development and provides expert care in communication disorders for all age groups,” she noted.
“AIISH’s outreach centers operate daily, employing a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach to meet the needs of those in need while engaging in continuous assessment and rehabilitation,” she added.
The land for AIISH was graciously donated by the late Mysuru king, Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar. “I extend my gratitude to Yaduveer Wadiyar, BJP MP and royal descendant from Mysuru, for honoring the noble legacy of his ancestors,” she expressed.
President Murmu also communicated to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, “Though Kannada isn’t my native language, I hold deep respect for all languages, cultures, and traditions. It is essential for everyone to work towards preserving and promoting our rich cultural heritage.”
Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Anupriya Patel, Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, and other dignitaries were in attendance at the event.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the urgency of fostering an inclusive society where specially abled individuals are treated with respect and compassion. President Murmu’s call to action aligns with our commitment to elevate the discourse surrounding accessibility and inclusion for all, reinforcing the importance of empathy in our collective journey.
NationPress
01/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did President Murmu emphasize about specially abled individuals?
President Murmu emphasized the need for society to approach specially abled individuals with empathy and cooperation, highlighting the importance of awareness and expert intervention in addressing their needs.
What role does AIISH play in the community?
AIISH serves as a pivotal institution for individuals with speech and hearing impairments, focusing on innovation and compassionate care to help them lead fulfilling lives.
How can society contribute to the well-being of specially abled individuals?
Society can contribute by raising awareness, creating accessible environments, and ensuring that public facilities accommodate the needs of specially abled individuals.
What is the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyaan?
The Sugamya Bharat Abhiyaan is an initiative by the Indian government aimed at ensuring that specially abled individuals have equal opportunities and can lead empowered lives.
Why is technology important in addressing speech and hearing issues?
Technology plays a crucial role in providing solutions for speech and hearing challenges, making it essential for these advancements to be accessible to the general public.
