Census to ensure inclusion of PwDs in Nagaland

Kohima, September 1 (MExN): The State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Tongpang L Jamir, held discussions with the Directorate of Census Operations, Nagaland, on ensuring the inclusion and accurate identification of persons with disabilities (PwDs) in the upcoming Census exercise.

Jamir met Director of Census Operations, Nagaland, Dr Kenei Miachieo, IFS, and Deputy Director Imkongnungsang to discuss measures to ensure that all 21 types of disabilities are covered during the enumeration process. The meeting stressed the need for a comprehensive and inclusive approach so that persons with disabilities across Nagaland are properly identified and their information accurately captured.

A key focus was the training and sensitisation of enumerators. It was discussed that enumerators should be adequately trained to understand the different types of disabilities and identify PwDs correctly and sensitively during the Census.

The State Commissioner stated that accurate and comprehensive disability data is essential for effective planning, policy formulation, resource allocation and implementation of government schemes and programmes for persons with disabilities.

Miachieo also highlighted the importance of creating awareness among enumerators and ensuring that the Census is conducted with "sensitivity, dignity and respect" for the rights of persons with disabilities.

The officials further discussed coordination between the Office of the State Commission for Persons with Disabilities and Census Operations, Nagaland, on disability identification and enumeration.

The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both offices to making the Census process more inclusive and ensuring that every person with disability is "counted, recognised and appropriately represented" in Census data.

"Leave no person with disability behind," the statement said.