Satish Singh Manhas
The post abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, marked a watershed moment in the history of Jammu and Kashmir. Alongside this pivotal constitutional amendment, the advent of the BJP Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 has brought forth unprecedented changes, particularly in the lives of divyangs (persons with disabilities) residing in the Jammu and Kashmir and all over the country as well. The abrogation of Article 370 has unleashed a wave of development initiatives, inclusivity, and empowerment for divyangs in Jammu and Kashmir. The move has paved the way for a more integrated and equitable society, fostering an environment where every individual, regardless of physical abilities, can thrive to it’s best potential be that in education, healthcare, employment, entrepreneurship and startups. The Government has prioritized inclusive policies aimed at empowering divyangs, the first being the transformation in identity from handicapped, physically handicapped, disabled etc to a revered and respectful name as Divyangs. And for their convenience many schemes like the Accessible India Campaign have been instrumental in creating accessible infrastructure and ensuring that public spaces are friendly to individuals with disabilities and no looking down attitudes henceforth. The abrogation of Article 370 has opened new avenues for employment and skill development in Jammu and Kashmir and divyangs were no more left behind. Divyangs have witnessed increased opportunities in both public and private sectors, as the Government actively promotes their inclusion in the workforce besides an increase in reservation for Government jobs. Various skill development programs have been initiated to equip divyangs with the necessary skills for their sustainable employment in the direction of making them fully independent. As education is a cornerstone for the holistic development of any community so, post Article 370 abrogation, UT has witnessed substantial reforms in its education system to accommodate and support divyangs and as such their admissions, trade learning, computing etc has been made totally hassle-free. Specialized educational institutions and support mechanisms have been established to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to quality education, employment and healthcare. The BJP Government’s tenure, starting in 2014, has been characterized by a comprehensive approach towards the upliftment of divyangs across the country, including Jammu and Kashmir. In this direction Prime Minister’s commitment to the ‘Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan’ (Accessible India Campaign) has laid the foundation for transformative changes and Divyangs are no lagging behind as beneficiaries.
Technological advancements also play a pivotal role in improving the lives of divyangs. The Government has actively promoted the development including issuance of Aadhar cards, UDID, updating pension data and adoption of assistive technologies, making daily activities more accessible for individuals with disabilities. This has not only enhanced their independence but also contributed to a more inclusive society.
Many organizations like Saksham are also working day in and day out selflessly in creating awareness and fostering a sense of understanding in society crucial for the integration of divyangs. In this direction, Saksham Jammu and Kashmir like many other organizations holds Sammelans, special sessions for divyangs throughout the union territory so that this important segment of society amounting to around 3-4 percent is not left unattended. Besides educative sessions also remain the main theme to make all Divyangs and their families aware about the changes the nation is heading to from the last one decade be that in the direction of building roads, infrastructure, social and national security, image of the country in word’s vision and many more. All divyangs are also guided to follow the path of nationalism and asked to adopt a nationalist approach in making all individual decisions be they for self, society in particular or nation in general.
The impact of changes after abrogation of article 370 as a result of doing away with many hindrant laws are also made aware to the divyangs and their families. Divyangs are no less to any individual and the achievement like that of Bharat Ratna Sheetal Devi from Kishtwar is a testing example which can boost the morale of divyangs and their families so that a positive transformations in their lives is made possible. The Government’s recent initiative to conduct polling at home with regard to divyangs and all others above 85 years of age is a testimony to the inclusive approach of the Government. The recent increase in their pensions, application of RPD act to Jammu and Kashmir post abrogation of Article 370 etc has definitely provided a good relief to one and all divyangs in Jammu and Kashmir. But at the end of the day, providing scooties, cycles, bicycles, increasing pensions, poll participation facilities at home is a temporary relief and what is needed to be done is that like polio eradication, the Government, all NGOs etc must collectively work towards welfare of this sector of society.
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