Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 311/13

MERIT SCHOLARSHIP FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES LAUNCHED

Shillong, June 14, 2013: Meghalaya Health Minister Mr. A L Hek launched the Meritorious Scholarship Scheme for students with disabilities at Vivekananda Cultural Centre Auditorium on 14th June 2013. The programme was organized by Government of Meghalaya, State Resource Centre, Civil Hospital, Shillong.

Speaking on the occasion as Chief Guest Mr. Hek ensures to provide a special package under the Megha Health Insurance Scheme (MHIS) for the physically handicapped and for persons with disabilities. The data enrolment process is already completed so they will be enrolled next year during the renewal period, he added.

Mr. Hek remarked that the disabled in different age groups have great talent who if given proper training, guidance and education at the right time will be able to earn livelihood and lead a successful life. He further extended his appreciation for the selfless and valuable services of the NGOs and institutions that takes care of persons with disabilities inspite of difficulties they faced and insisted that facilities in the form of financial help or grants should be given to such organisations and institutions.

The minister also called upon the people to change their attitude in order to understand disability in a developmental context by showing respect, giving equal treatment and thereby creating a world free of discrimination.

During the function, certificate with cheque were also distributed to differently abled students who excelled in various examinations conducted by their respective Board and Universities.

Others who spoke on the occasion are Mr. D P Wahlang, Commissioner and Secretary, Health & Family Welfare Department, and Smt. C Kharkongor, Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities and Mr. H M Shangpliang Director of Social Welfare, Government of Meghalaya. Earlier in the function, Dr. L L Sawian, Project Director and State Coordinator, State Resource Centre, Civil Hospital, Shillong delivered the keynote address.