Tangmarg /Aijaz Baba
J&K Ittihad Specially Abled Welfare Association, Baramulla, today organised a meaningful and inspiring programme at Town Hall Kunzer, highlighting the importance of inclusion, empowerment, and welfare of specially abled persons in society.
The event was conducted under the able guidance of District coordinator Rukiya Akbar and Tehsil President M. Amin, whose dedicated efforts ensured the successful organisation of the programme aimed at promoting awareness and social support for specially abled individuals.
Sub-Divisional Magistrate Tangmarg, Jaliel Ahmad Mir, attended the function as the Chief Guest, while CEO Gulmarg Development Authority Tariq Hussain was the Special Guest. Their presence added great significance to the occasion and reflected the administration’s commitment towards social welfare and inclusive development.
Among other distinguished guests present were Fayaz Ahmad (ZPO), Dr. Irfan from PHC Kunzer, Rakash Ban (Tehsil Social Welfare Officer Pattan), SHO Kunzer Shabir Ahmad, Zubair Ahmad (TSWO Tangmarg), noted writer and social activist Muntazir Momin Wani, and prominent social activist Mushtaq Ahmad Reshi, along with several other respected dignitaries.
The programme witnessed valuable discussions on the rights, dignity, and empowerment of specially abled persons, with speakers stressing the need for stronger institutional support and public participation in building an inclusive society.
Writer and social activist Muntazir Momin Wani ably hosted the programme and ensured smooth proceedings with his impactful moderation..
On the occasion, District coordinator Rukiya Akbar strongly emphasized the urgent need for a proper ramp system in all government departments to ensure easy accessibility for specially abled persons. She stated that equal access to public offices is a basic right and that the absence of ramps and other accessibility facilities creates unnecessary hardship for persons with disabilities.
She also highlighted that religious places should not be left behind in this mission of inclusion. She urged the concerned authorities and religious management bodies to ensure that ramps and accessible pathways are constructed in mosques, shrines, temples, and other places of worship so that specially abled individuals can participate in spiritual and religious activities with dignity and without barriers.
On the occasion, prominent social activist Mushtaq Ahmad Reshi (Jannate Kashmir) strongly highlighted the need for ensuring greater economic empowerment of specially abled persons. He stressed that a special quota must be reserved for specially abled individuals in government auctions, allotment of shops, and rental opportunities provided by various departments
He stated that true inclusion is not limited to sympathy alone, but must be reflected in practical opportunities that enable specially abled persons to live with dignity, independence, and financial security. He urged the administration to frame people-friendly policies that prioritize their participation in livelihood opportunities and self-employment initiatives
Tehsil President M. Amin, while addressing the gathering, strongly emphasized that specially abled persons must stay away from the menace of drugs and become active partners in building a drug-free society. He said that drug abuse destroys lives, families, and the future of youth, and specially abled individuals should stand as role models in supporting the ongoing Nasha Mukt Abhiyan.
He urged specially abled persons to focus on education, skill development, and self-employment so they can become self-reliant and financially independent. He stated that empowerment comes through confidence, hard work, and opportunities, and society must support them in achieving dignity through self-sufficiency rather than dependency.
M. Amin further said that specially abled persons possess immense talent and potential, and with proper guidance and support, they can contribute significantly to social development and nation-building. His message of awareness, self-reliance, and social responsibility was widely appreciated by the participants.
Special Guest CEO Gulmarg Development Authority Tariq Hussain Fayaz Ahmad (ZPO), Dr. Irfan from PHC Kunzer, Rakash Ban (Tehsil Social Welfare Officer Pattan), SHO Kunzer Shabir Ahmad, Zubair Ahmad (TSWO Tangmarg), and noted writer and social activist Muntazir Momin Wani, warmly felicitated specially abled persons and encouraged them with inspiring words of support and motivation.
The guests appreciated the courage, resilience, and determination shown by specially abled individuals in overcoming daily challenges and contributing positively to society. They emphasized that disability should never be seen as a limitation, but rather as a different strength that deserves recognition, respect, and equal opportunity.
Through their encouraging messages, they motivated specially abled persons to remain confident, pursue education and self-employment, and actively participate in social development. Their words of appreciation created a positive and emotional atmosphere, boosting the morale of participants and reinforcing the message of dignity, empowerment, and inclusion.
While Speaking with Media Sub Divisional Magistrate Jaliel Ahmad Mir stated that several issues concerning specially abled persons were brought to his notice in written form during the programme. He assured the participants that all genuine issues pertaining to any department at the sub-divisional level would be addressed on priority and every possible support would be extended to ensure their welfare and dignity.
He emphasized that such programmes are essential for giving voice to specially abled individuals and strengthening their inclusion in society. He appreciated the efforts of J&K Itihad Specially Abled Welfare Association for creating a platform where concerns can be openly discussed and solutions can be pursued collectively.
The SDM also acknowledged the active role of specially abled persons in the ongoing Nasha Mukt Abhiyan, stating that their participation in standing against drug abuse sends a strong and inspiring message to society. He said that the fight against drugs requires collective responsibility, and the involvement of every section of society, including specially abled persons, makes the campaign stronger and more impactful.
The organisers expressed gratitude to all guests and participants for making the event successful and reaffirmed their commitment to continue working for the welfare and upliftment of specially abled persons across the district.
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