“Only those nations progress that support their disabled and vulnerable communities.” — Dr. Jamal Nasir

Rawalpindi, December 3( )On the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a graceful ceremony was held at Anjuman Faiz-ul-Islam Rawalpindi under the auspices of Voice of Special Persons. The event was attended by representatives of various institutions, persons with disabilities, social workers, and intellectuals. The chief guest was Dr. Jamal Nasir, former Provincial Minister for Health & Population Welfare. Other distinguished guests included Director Social Welfare Rana Shahid, Deputy Director Ms. Rukhsana, President Anjuman Faiz-ul-Islam Dr. Riaz Ahmed, and Chairman Voice of Special Persons Nabeel Satti. Addressing the ceremony, Dr. Jamal Nasir said that only those nations advance that support their disabled and vulnerable segments. He emphasized that serving humanity requires compassion, not wealth. He urged philanthropists to step forward, adding that it is the collective responsibility of the entire society to ensure facilities, employment, and rehabilitation centers for persons with disabilities, as these are essential needs of the time. He called upon the government to immediately and fully enforce the 3% job quota reserved for persons with disabilities in public sector employment. He further demanded the prompt reinstatement of the 1,600+ visually impaired individuals who were previously dismissed from their jobs, so they may regain dignified employment. He added that persons with disabilities do not need sympathy—they deserve opportunities. Director Social Welfare Rana Shahid announced that the government is introducing a major initiative for persons with disabilities, especially the visually impaired, under which 5,000 blind individuals will receive a monthly scholarship of Rs. 12,000. He added that several other projects aimed at rehabilitation and empowerment of persons with disabilities are in their final stages, with the objective of making them self-reliant. President Anjuman Faiz-ul-Islam Dr. Riaz Ahmed stated that nations progress only when they consider their disabled citizens an asset rather than a burden, and work alongside the government for their development. He said that by adhering to Islamic principles and accepting collective responsibility, poverty and deprivation can be eradicated. Chairman Voice of Special Persons Nabeel Satti said that the state is like a mother, and a mother must care for all her children equally. Persons with disabilities are our responsibility, and stronger, well-coordinated policies and practical measures are needed for their welfare. He appreciated the government’s recent efforts but stressed the need to accelerate implementation at the grassroots level. At the end of the ceremony, gifts and aid packages were distributed among various persons with disabilities. Participants emphasized that the International Day of Persons with Disabilities should not be limited to a single day; rather, efforts for their rights, employment, and equal opportunities must continue throughout the year.
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