Shillong, September 27, 2025 – The Minister of Health and Sports & Youth Affairs, Ma Wailadmiki Shylla, underscored the vital role of inclusivity, stating that “there can be no human rights without sign language rights.” He emphasized the need for compassion and proper support for persons with disabilities, including those with intellectual challenges, hearing impairments, and visual impairments.
Shylla was speaking at the observance of World International Deaf Day, held at St. Anthony’s College Auditorium, Shillong. The event was organized by the Office of the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities in collaboration with the State Resource Centre on Disability Affairs (SRCDA), Composite Regional Centre (CRC) Shillong, and the Meghalaya Deaf Association. This year’s theme was: “No Human Rights without Sign Language Rights.”
Expressing concern over the lack of awareness about government schemes, the Minister directed all relevant departments to ensure that persons with disabilities receive full support, information, and training so that “no one is left behind.”
As a newly inducted minister, Shylla announced plans for several initiatives, including:
- Camps to identify and support persons with disabilities.
- The Purple Fair, offering a platform for them to showcase their talents.
- Special support programmes under various government schemes.
He also highlighted existing schemes and benefits such as:
- Scholarships from nursery to higher education, covering tuition fees, books, uniforms, and transportation costs.
- Special scholarships for talented students.
- Skill training programmes with monthly stipends of up to ₹2,000, along with start-up support for self-employment.
- MHIS and other healthcare schemes.
- The Unique Disability ID (UDID) card, providing easier access to benefits.
On this occasion, the Minister officially launched the “Meghalaya Sign Bank App”, aimed at bridging communication gaps between the general public and the hearing-impaired community. He urged everyone to download the app and start learning essential sign language.
Additionally, Shylla pledged to promote para-sports, offering guidance, training, and competitive opportunities for youth with disabilities.
Concluding his address, the Minister praised the Commissioner’s Office, SRCDA, CRC, and partner organizations for their efforts, and called upon society to embrace inclusivity and empathy by learning and using sign language.
