Goemkarponn desk
PORVORIM: The Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Goa, announced the momentous inauguration of its new office premises. The unveiling of the new office premises symbolizes the commitment of the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities to providing a conducive environment for the empowerment and support of persons with disabilities.
This significant occasion was graced by the esteemed presence of Dr. Pramod Sawant, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, Shri. Subhash Phal Dessai, Hon’ble Minister for Social Welfare, Govt of Goa, Shri. Kedar Naik, Saligao MLA, GSIDC Vice-Chairman, Shri. Subhash Chandra (IAS), Secretary, Social Welfare, Shri. Guruprasad Pawaskar, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Shri. Ajit Panchwadkar, Director, Directorate of Social Welfare, Smt. Meghna Shetgaonkar, Director, Department of Empowerment for Persons with Disabilities, and Shri. Taha Haaziq, Secretary, O/o State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities. In addition to the inauguration, the event also witnessed the distribution of Prosthesis (Artificial Limbs) to individuals in need, furthering the mission of enhancing accessibility and quality of life for persons with disabilities. As part of the event the Wheelchair Accessible E-Rickshaws, an initiative aimed at promoting inclusivity and ease of mobility for persons with disabilities was also held. CM also interacted with various individuals who availed of this facility and was pleased with the response received from all over Goa.
Speaking on the occasion of the launch, Dr. Pramod Sawant, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa stated that “I am immensely proud of the impactful work undertaken by the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities in Goa. Their unwavering commitment to fostering awareness and understanding through various workshops and handling grievances and advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities is truly commendable, embodying the principles of justice and equality. The extensive efforts in distributing prosthetic artificial limbs on a large scale reflect a genuine commitment to improving the lives of those in need. The launch of wheelchair-accessible e-rickshaws, set to operate in all talukas of Goa, is a testament to the forward-thinking initiatives aimed at enhancing mobility and accessibility for everyone. Witnessing the distribution of Neo Motion bikes to beneficiaries is a moment of joy, offering a practical and empowering solution for those with mobility challenges. The establishment of the spinal cord rehabilitation centre, ‘Rughnashray,’ showcases a deep understanding of the diverse needs within the community. I am particularly delighted to witness the significant steps taken towards creating a more inclusive environment”.
The Honourable Chief Minister reiterated the commitment of the Goa government to the vision of the Honourable Prime Minister for a Viksit India and Viksit Goa and its enduring commitment to realizing a Fit, Skilled and Inclusive Goa.
Shri. Subhash Phal Dessai, Hon’ble Minister for Social Welfare, Govt of Goa stated “Today marks a historic moment as we witness the extraordinary efforts of the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities in collaboration with HPCL and the support of SBI Foundation. For the first time, we are providing artificial limbs to 300 beneficiaries simultaneously, each costing more than 60,000, a monumental achievement that underscores our commitment to the welfare of persons with disabilities. Due to the CSR partnership with HPCL Goa is set to become the first state in the country to laun…
