Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, Minister for Social Justice and
Empowerment inaugurated a “National Conference on Autism” organized by The
National Trust for the welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental
Retardation and Multiple Disabilities under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
here today. Ministers of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Shri Krishan
Pal Gurjar and Shri Ramdas Athawale were also present. A Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) was exchanged between The National Trust and Rotary Club in
the field of Autism. Three publications of The National Trust were also
released by Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot on the occasion.
Addressing on the occasion, Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot said that the
persons affected by Autism face challenges in many areas of their lives and thus
educating the public about Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and raising Autism
awareness has been the focus of large scale initiatives in many
countries. He awarded the talented and creative children living with
Autism and wished them success in their career ahead. Ministry of Social
Justice and Empowerment regularly organizes Camps for distribution of all types
of assistive devices to Divyangjans nationwide. He said that the National Trust
has launched 10 schemes in November, 2015 for the empowerment and welfare of
the Divyangjans. He hoped that the Conference will provide an excellent
opportunity to obtain information about latest developments in education /
skilling and inclusive living of persons with autism, apart from deliberations
on latest research on medical aspects. It will also be an excellent forum to
meet various parents, experts and professionals to interact on the best
practices.
Shri Ramdas Athawale in his address dwelt upon many schemes for
the welfare of Divyangjans initiated by the Government in past two years. He
praised the efforts of The National Trust.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Krishan Pal Gurjar opined that in
the “Rights of Persons With Disabilities (RPWD) Bill passed by
Parliament in December, 2016, the Disability has been defined based on an
evolving and dynamic concept and the types of disabilities have been increased
from existing 7 to 21.
Autism is a spectrum of complex neurological disorders that affect
individuals in the areas of social interaction and communication. Several
genes, in combination with Environmental Factors, may contribute to Autism. In
India, 1 out of 89 children born are said to be living with Autism. It’s
symptoms include: Poor eye contact, Decreased social response; responses to
their name, looking people, social smiles, Repetitive behaviors, Lack of
expected language and social development, Decreased nonverbal communication and
gestures. Autism is a lifelong disorder, There is currently no cure for autism,
Early intervention may improve quality of life in these children. In accordance
with the Constitution of India and Right of Persons with Disability Bill 2014,
Several Government schemes and programmes can be availed by a person with
autism, Mandatory to have disability certificate to avail benefits like travel
concessions, health insurance, residential facilities, scholarships and
financial incentives for self-employed.
The National Conference, which is organized during the World
Autism Awareness month, is a part of the 3 days training programme on Autism
being organized by the National Trust in collaboration with AIIMS, Delhi to
train doctors on use of INCLEN and ISSA tools for issuance of Disability
Certificate to persons with Autism. In 2007, the UN General Assembly declared 2nd April
as World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) and since 2008, 2nd April
is being observed across the World as World Autism Awareness Day to increase
awareness about Autism among general masses Worldwide.
Eminent experts and professionals in Autism are taking part in the
daylong conference which includes panel discussions on key issues related to
persons with Autism like – Early detection and Intervention / Inclusive
Education and College Education, Skilling and Employment and Supported and
Independent Living.
*****
Sanjay
Kumar/jk/SJ&E-1/31.03.2017
