Shillong, June 5: The Office of the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities under the Social Welfare Department, Government of Meghalaya, in collaboration with the Pt.
Deendayal Upadhyaya National Institute for Persons with Physical Disabilities (Divyangjan), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, and Instalimb India Pvt. Ltd., today inaugurated a two-day Hands-on 3D Prosthetic Training Programme for Prosthetic and Orthotic professionals from across North East India at U Soso Tham Auditorium, Shillong.
The programme aims to strengthen the capacity of rehabilitation professionals, promote inter-departmental collaboration, and facilitate the adoption of emerging 3D prosthetic and orthotic technologies in rehabilitation services across the North Eastern Region.
Professionals from various northeastern states are participating in the training to acquire practical skills and technical knowledge in advanced 3D printing technologies used in the production of assistive and rehabilitation devices.
A major highlight of the inaugural programme was the fitting and distribution of 3D-printed artificial limbs to twelve persons with disabilities who had undergone amputations.
The initiative demonstrated the transformative potential of advanced technology in enhancing mobility, independence and quality of life for persons with disabilities.
Addressing the gathering, Cabinet Minister Sanbor Shullai stated that the programme reflects a collective commitment towards strengthening rehabilitation services and promoting inclusive healthcare in the North Eastern region through innovation and technology.
He emphasized that partnerships between government institutions, rehabilitation professionals and private innovators are essential for empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring access to quality rehabilitation services.
He highlighted the role of advanced technologies such as 3D scanning, digital design, artificial intelligence and modern manufacturing techniques in making prosthetic care more accessible and affordable, particularly in remote areas.
He also underscored the importance of capacity building among rehabilitation professionals and expressed confidence that the knowledge and skills imparted through the training programme would contribute significantly to improving rehabilitation services across the region.
Shullai reaffirmed the commitment of both the Government of India and the Government of Meghalaya towards ensuring equality, dignity, accessibility and social inclusion for persons with disabilities.
He further highlighted the various welfare measures being implemented in the state, including scholarships, assistive devices, transport assistance, financial aid and accessibility initiatives.
The Minister called upon institutions, professionals, civil society organizations and citizens to work collectively towards building a more inclusive society and ensuring that policies, programmes and public spaces remain accessible and welcoming to all.
The programme was attended by Commissioner and Secretary, Social Welfare Department, Pravin Bakshi, IAS; Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of Instalimb India Pvt. Ltd., Mr. Shoichiro Adachi; along with government officials, rehabilitation professionals and beneficiaries.
