HT Bureau
ITANAGAR, April 28: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh KT Parnaik inaugurated the ‘Awareness and Observation of Autism Month’ programme at the Golden Jubilee State Banquet Hall, Niti Vihar, Itanagar, today. The two-day event, organized by the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (APSCPCR) in collaboration with the State Health Department, the National Institute of Locomotor Disabilities, and Toko Rehabilitation Centre cum Special School, saw participation from a large number of parents, children, educators, and healthcare professionals.
During the event, the Governor, along with State Social Justice Minister Shri Kento Jini, distributed teaching and learning kits, as well as aids and appliances, to children with special needs. They also interacted closely with parents, autistic children, medical specialists, and educators.
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In his address, the Governor emphasized that the programme must mark the beginning of a broader understanding and celebration of neurodiversity. Referring to autistic children as the “Shining Stars” of Arunachal Pradesh, he stressed the need to embrace their unique talents and perspectives, ensuring their full inclusion in education, employment, and social life.
Assuring full support to parents, the Governor stated that the State Government would go beyond normal measures to address the challenges faced by children with autism. He announced that Raj Bhavan would involve these “Shining Stars” in all its programmes and plan special events for them. Additionally, he proposed initiating a PhD program focused on autism at state universities to foster meaningful research and better strategies for supporting individuals on the spectrum.
Calling for an in-depth review and mapping of Children With Special Needs (CWSNs) across the State, the Governor emphasized the necessity of intensive sensitization programs across key departments — Education, Health, Social Justice, and Women and Child Development. He advocated for early intervention by mandating the appointment of special educators in schools and suggested the establishment of government-run model special schools.
The Governor also recommended that Health and Social Justice departments collaborate to standardize private therapy centers and integrate them into State and Central welfare programs, ensuring accessible and quality services for all children in need.
Acknowledging the relentless efforts of various institutions, the Governor commended the Rehabilitation Centre cum Special Schools and officials of the Directorate of Health Services for their dedication. He also appreciated Ratan Anya, Chairperson of APSCPCR, for her commitment to addressing the needs of children with autism at the State level.
State Social Justice Minister Kento Jini reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that all Central and State Government schemes for children with special needs would reach every household.
Chairperson Ratan Anya and Member Secretary Khoda Rakhi of APSCPCR highlighted the challenges faced by children with autism and suggested concrete measures to improve their lives.
A moving testimony from a parent of an autistic child deeply touched the audience, providing a powerful reminder of the everyday challenges faced by families.
The two-day programme also features a free disability assessment camp for children with special needs and the creation of registration records for future consultations and support.
