SHILLONG, NOV 14: Meghalaya Governor CH Vijayashankar has directed the Social Welfare Department to prepare a comprehensive list of all visually impaired children in the state — including those blind since birth and those who lost their sight later — in order to explore suitable treatment options and targeted support.
The Governor said that several children who became visually impaired due to accidents or medical complications may still have a chance to regain their eyesight with the right intervention. He stressed the importance of mobilizing donor support and linking affected children to appropriate medical care.
Vijayashankar informed that certain hospitals, particularly in Kerala, have the expertise to treat children below 14 years with vision-related conditions and are known for providing specialized Ayurvedic eye treatments. For partially blind children, he noted that a 15-day treatment programme could significantly improve vision if administered properly.
He assured that the government would take steps to request these hospitals to admit Meghalaya’s children in batches for treatment.
The Governor made these remarks while addressing a special programme at Raj Bhavan on the occasion of Children’s Day, which brought together children with different abilities from various schools. Accompanied by his wife, Vijayashankar extended warm greetings to the children and underscored the value of celebrating the day with those living with physical challenges.
Calling the programme a meaningful occasion for Raj Bhavan, he reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting the welfare of children with disabilities. He urged the Social Welfare Department to identify and nurture the talents of specially-abled children, observing that many possess potential to excel as musicians, swimmers, singers, and in other fields with proper training.
The event, organised by the Social Welfare Department, featured vibrant performances, including songs by the GTC band, a presentation by students of Jyoti School, and musical performances by two differently-abled children from ASHA School, Shillong.
