Joint Secretary, Department of Persons with Multiple Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment Visits CRC A&N Islands

Sri Vijaya Puram, May 05: The Composite Regional Centre (CRC) for Skill Development, Rehabilitation and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Andaman & Nicobar Islands, successfully conducted a special programme highlighting its achievements, service outreach, and future initiatives.
The programme was held in the esteemed presence of Mr. Rajeev Sharma, IFS, Joint Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, and Government of India who graced the event as the Chief Guest. He was joined by Dr. Nachiketa Rout, Director, NIEPMD, Chennai, Mrs. Sumithamol, Director, CRC A&N Islands and Mr. Ashok Biswas, Probationary Officer, Directorate of Social Welfare, A&N Islands.
The programme began with a traditional welcome and lamp lighting, followed by the honoring of dignitaries. Mrs. Sumithamol delivered the Welcome Address and a presentation on CRC’s five-year journey. Dr.Nachiketa Rout, Director, NIEPMD, Chennai delivered an inspiring keynote, stressing the need to strengthen and expanding rehabilitation services of CRC and vision for inclusive rehabilitation across the islands. In the remarks, Mr. Ashok Biswas, Probationary Officer, Directorate of Social Welfare informed that the land allocation for a permanent CRC campus is actively under process. He also shared that a dedicated CRC bus facility is being planned to enhance transportation support for beneficiaries from distant areas.
Mr. Rajeev Sharma, IFS, Joint Secretary, DEPwD and MSJ&E distributed Aids and appliances under the Government of India’s ADIP Scheme. Speaking on the occasion Joint Secretary, DEPwD emphasized the Ministry’s vision to expand CRC A&N’s reach across the Islands. He also appreciated the ongoing coordination with the A&N Administration for land identification to build a dedicated CRC campus, enabling expanded and sustainable services for Divyangjan.
The programme included a parent testimonial, and a parent training session on independent living skills conducted by Mr. Prabhu, Special Educator cum Orientation & Mobility Instructor. The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Mr.T.Y.Abid, Lect in Physiotherapy.