JAMMU, May 18: Composite Regional Centre for Skill Development, Rehabilitation and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities under the administrative control of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya National Institute for Persons with Physical Disabilities, functioning under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, organized a two-day RCI Accredited National Conference on the theme “Inclusive and Innovative Practices in the Management of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities” at the Conference Hall of Government Gandhi Nagar Hospital on May 18 and 19.
The conference commenced with the ceremonial lamp lighting by Chief Guest Dr. Renu Gupta along with Dr. Rohnika Sharma, Dr. Romesh Kumar, Naveen Gupta and Rahul Singh.
The programme formally began with a welcome address by Naveen Gupta, who welcomed dignitaries, experts, delegates and participants. This was followed by a conference overview presented by Dr. Rayess Zahoor Shah, highlighting the objectives and significance of the conference in promoting inclusive and innovative rehabilitation practices.
Delivering the inaugural keynote address, Dr. Rohnika Sharma emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts, evidence-based interventions and inclusive approaches for empowering persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Dr. Renu Gupta appreciated the initiative taken by Composite Regional Centre for Skill Development, Rehabilitation and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities in bringing together experts, academicians, rehabilitation professionals and stakeholders on one platform for meaningful deliberations on disability management and inclusive education.
The formal vote of thanks was presented by Rahul Singh, followed by a group photograph session and tea for participants.
The National Conference witnessed enthusiastic participation from special educators, rehabilitation professionals, academicians, therapists, researchers, scholars, students, parents and stakeholders committed to inclusion, empowerment and holistic rehabilitation of persons with disabilities.
Following the tea break, Session-II featured an engaging panel discussion moderated by Dr. Rohnika Sharma. The panel included eminent experts such as Dr. Sarika Manhas, Head, Department of Home Science, University of Jammu; Dr. Romesh Kumar, HOD and Nodal Officer for Counselling, Mental Health and Psychological Support, DIET Jammu; Dr. Aksa Rao, Associate Professor, Department of English, Parade College for Women; and Rahul Singh.
The discussion focused on innovative strategies, counselling support, multidisciplinary approaches and inclusive practices in managing intellectual and developmental disabilities. An open-house interaction session followed, enabling participants to engage directly with experts.
The third session featured keynote talks by distinguished speakers including Dr. Sanjeev Gupta and Dr. Basant Seyal. Both experts shared valuable insights on interdisciplinary rehabilitation practices, therapeutic interventions and holistic management approaches for persons with disabilities.
The keynote sessions concluded with an interactive discussion with participants. The first day of the National Conference ended with evening tea for all attendees.