Govt mulling to enhance monthly pension of disabled persons: Minister Sakeena Itoo

Number of schools to be increased, skill training to be imparted to specially abled children, persons

Srinagar, Dec 03 (KNO): The Minister for Health, Education and Social Welfare, Sakeena Itoo Tuesday said that people with disabilities will get enhanced pension and the number of schools for them will be increased as well.

Talking to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the Minister said that the government is committed to the welfare of specially disabled people of J&K. “We are mulling to enhance the monthly pension of physically disabled people of the J&K,” she said.

She said the government is also planning to increase the number of schools for the disabled lot. “At present there are only two schools for them—one in Kashmir and another at Jammu,” Itoo said.

She also said that the government intends to provide loans to the disabled people at low interest rates so that they can start their ventures and earn a dignified livelihood. “We know many of them know the art of painting and others have good skills. We also intend to provide them proper training to fine tune their skills so that they remain independent,” the Minister said.

Earlier, speaking at an event organized by Samagra Shiksha, J&K at the Convention Centre here to commemorate International Day of Persons with Disabilities-2024, the Minister acknowledged the resilience and strength of individuals with disabilities, who continue to demonstrate remarkable courage in overcoming day to day challenges. The Minister stressed on the need for support and inclusivity of the differently able persons in our society for shaping their future.

The Minister said: “We need to unveil the potential of individuals with disabilities and ensure they have better access to education, healthcare, employment and public spaces. Just like us, they also have a right to live a life of dignity and opportunity”.

While speaking on this year’s theme of International Day of Persons with Disabilities- ‘Amplifying the leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future’, Itoo called upon establishing a ‘Disability Inclusive Society’ where every person, regardless of their physical or intellectual limitations, can lead a life of dignity.

“Breaking down societal stereotypes and prejudices surrounding disabilities is essential for creating an inclusive culture that celebrates diversity in all its forms,” the Minister said.

Commending the differently able students and children on the occasion, Itoo said that the talent showcased by students while presenting performances today was remarkable. “The children showed that they are not lacking anything but possess unique talent which needs to be honoured and nurtured,” she said and advised the parents to come forward without hiding anything due to the stigma associated with it. “Disability should not be seen as a limitation, but rather as an opportunity to depict your hidden talent,” Itoo said.

She appreciated the role of caregivers, parents and families of persons with disabilities, who often serve as the primary source of support and care. “Your unwavering dedication and love are essential for empowering persons with disabilities”, Itoo said.

The Minister further highlighted that the Government is committed to address every issue of differently abled persons, adding that NGOs also have a role to play and they need to be more active on ground and utilise the Grant In Aid provided by the government effectively. Earlier, Itoo also distributed motorised Tricycles and Scooties among differently abled beneficiaries of Social Welfare department—(KNO)

NCDC Members Discuss Impact of Digital Devices on Children and Propose Solutions

In a recent meeting of the National Child Development Committee (NCDC), members addressed growing concerns about the impact of digital devices, such as mobile phones, laptops, and tablets, on children. The discussion focused on how excessive screen time affects children’s physical and cognitive development, particularly their motor skills, social interactions, and overall well-being.

One NCDC member shared an example from Hyderabad, where children were observed struggling with basic tasks like folding paper and writing due to overexposure to digital gadgets. The proposed solution was to limit gadget use for at least three days, a strategy believed to reduce dependency on devices and encourage more productive activities. The member also emphasized the importance of parental involvement, suggesting that parents engage their children in meaningful activities during this time.

Another NCDC committee member highlighted the growing role of digital education in schools, where mobile phones and laptops are increasingly used for lessons. While acknowledging that technology is an essential tool for modern education, she urged parents to supervise their children’s use of digital devices to ensure they are being used for educational purposes rather than excessive entertainment. She also recommended educating children about online safety and the potential dangers of the internet.

The committee members also emphasized that parents should avoid using their phones unnecessarily in front of their children, as children tend to mimic adult behavior. They suggested limiting screen time by providing children with creative and educational apps, such as chess games, to enhance intellectual development while still allowing interaction with technology.

One core committee member expressed support for allowing children some screen time but stressed the importance of teaching them how to use technology responsibly. He recommended creating a structured timetable for when and how children can use their devices, ensuring that technology serves as a tool for education rather than a distraction.

The meeting concluded with a consensus that, while technology is inevitable in modern education and daily life, a balanced approach must be adopted. Parental supervision, time limits, and alternative activities such as outdoor play and creative hobbies were identified as key factors in helping children develop a healthy relationship with technology.