More than 500 persons with disabilities in Assam’s Kokrajhar district received a range of aids and assistive devices during a special distribution camp organized as part of a government-supported initiative. The event marked a significant step toward enhancing mobility, independence, and dignity for differently-abled individuals in the region.
Organized under the centrally-sponsored Scheme for Providing Aids and Assistive Devices to Divyangjans (ADIP Scheme), the camp was held at the Green Field Multipurpose Complex in Kokrajhar. The initiative was carried out by the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) in collaboration with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, and with support from the Government of Assam.
The distribution camp aimed to provide essential mobility aids and appliances to eligible persons with disabilities (PwDs), enabling them to lead more self-reliant and productive lives. Among the items distributed were wheelchairs, crutches, hearing aids, walking sticks, smart canes, tricycles, artificial limbs, and other customized assistive devices tailored to the specific needs of the beneficiaries.
Local residents, caregivers, and community workers participated enthusiastically in the event, which also featured medical assessments, awareness drives, and on-site demonstrations to ensure that recipients were fully informed about the usage and maintenance of their new devices.
Gracing the occasion were several dignitaries, including representatives from the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) government, district administration officials, and social welfare department personnel. Addressing the gathering, the officials emphasized the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and reiterated the importance of breaking down barriers faced by persons with disabilities.
“This initiative is not just about distributing aids—it’s about restoring confidence, ensuring dignity, and promoting equal opportunities,” said a senior official from the Social Welfare Department. “When we empower a person with disability, we empower an entire family and strengthen the fabric of our society.”
Beneficiaries shared their personal stories and reactions with visible gratitude and optimism. Many expressed how these assistive devices would drastically improve their daily lives, enabling them to travel independently, attend school, seek employment, or contribute to household work without being overly dependent on others.
For 13-year-old Nayan, who received a specialized wheelchair, the camp was life-changing. “I always wanted to go to school on my own without waiting for someone to carry me. Now I can do that,” he beamed, his mother wiping tears of joy from her eyes.
Another recipient, Anita, a 45-year-old homemaker who received a hearing aid, spoke of the challenges she faced for years. “I could hardly hear my children speak. Today, with this device, it feels like I’ve got my world back,” she said, expressing deep appreciation for the support she received.
The success of the Kokrajhar camp is being seen as a model for similar initiatives across Assam, where thousands of individuals still struggle with access to basic mobility and assistive tools. Officials confirmed that more camps are being planned in other districts, especially in remote and underserved areas.
The distribution drive also focused on creating awareness about the rights of persons with disabilities under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. Information kiosks and counselors at the venue guided attendees on how to avail government schemes, financial assistance, and certification procedures.
The initiative underlines the Assam government’s larger mission to create an inclusive, accessible, and compassionate society where no one is left behind. Through collaborative efforts between central and state agencies, and with the active involvement of civil society, the state is moving closer to its vision of holistic development for all.
As the sun set over Kokrajhar, the bright smiles, newly acquired confidence, and uplifted spirits of the beneficiaries stood as a testament to the transformative power of inclusive governance. The assistive devices may be simple tools—but for the over 500 individuals who received them, they are symbols of freedom, possibility, and hope.