Puducherry: The Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) at Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER) has been observing the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) through a series of month-long activities aimed at promoting awareness, inclusivity and empowerment.

As part of the celebrations, sports events were organised on November 19 for differently-abled JIPMER employees and students. The participants displayed exceptional talent and enthusiasm while competing alongside able-bodied participants, reinforcing the spirit of equality and inclusion.

To sensitise school children and JIPMER staff on disability rights, a drawing competition on the theme 'Inclusive Society' was conducted. A prize distribution ceremony to honour outstanding differently-abled performers was held on December 3 at the SSB Conference Hall, coinciding with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

The concluding events on December 6 included an awareness rally, demonstrations on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, cultural performances by persons with disabilities and an exhibition of assistive devices. These initiatives aimed to educate medical and allied health students on accessibility and disability rights.

JIPMER Director Dr Vir Singh Negi and Medical Superintendent Dr Saka Vinod Kumar extended their support to the initiative. The events were coordinated under the leadership of Dr Navin Kumar, Head of the PMR Department.