SHILLONG: 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) under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, and Instalimb India Pvt. Ltd., on Friday inaugurated a two-day Hands-on 3D Prosthetic Training Programme for Prosthetic and Orthotic professionals from across Northeast India at U Soso Tham Auditorium, Shillong.
The training programme aims to strengthen the capacity of rehabilitation professionals, enhance inter-departmental coordination, and promote the adoption of emerging 3D prosthetic and orthotic technologies in rehabilitation services across the Northeastern region.
Professionals from various northeastern states are participating in the programme to gain hands-on experience and technical expertise in the latest 3D-printing technologies used in the production of rehabilitation and assistive devices.
A key highlight of the inaugural programme was the distribution and fitting of 3D-printed artificial limbs to twelve persons with disabilities who had undergone amputations. The initiative demonstrated how advanced technology can significantly improve mobility, independence and quality of life.
Addressing the gathering, Sanbor Shullai said the initiative reflects a collective commitment to strengthening rehabilitation services and promoting inclusive healthcare in the Northeastern region. He congratulated the Office of the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, the State Council for Science, Technology and Environment, and all partner institutions for organising the programme.
He noted that collaboration between government institutions, rehabilitation professionals and private innovators demonstrates how technology and innovation can be harnessed to empower persons with disabilities. He also acknowledged the contribution of Instalimb India Pvt. Ltd., which uses 3D scanning, digital design, artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing techniques to provide innovative prosthetic solutions.
The Minister said such innovations are making quality prosthetic care more affordable and accessible, particularly in remote areas. He further highlighted that the accompanying Continuing Rehabilitation Education (CRE) programme on digital fabrication and prosthetic development would expose professionals from across the Northeast to the latest advancements in rehabilitation technology and digital design practices.
Emphasising the importance of capacity building, Shullai stated that training healthcare and rehabilitation professionals is essential for ensuring sustainable and high-quality rehabilitation services. He expressed confidence that the knowledge and skills gained through the programme would help strengthen rehabilitation services across the region and benefit countless persons with disabilities in the years ahead.
He also highlighted Meghalaya’s progress in supporting persons with disabilities through welfare schemes, scholarships, assistive devices, transport assistance, financial aid and other support measures. He informed that 41 government buildings and 85 government websites in the state have been made accessible under ongoing accessibility initiatives, while efforts are underway to improve accessible transportation facilities.
Calling for greater participation from all sections of society, the Minister stressed that building an inclusive society is not the responsibility of the government alone. He urged institutions, professionals, civil society organisations and citizens to work together to ensure accessibility and inclusion in policies, programmes and workplaces.
Several beneficiaries who received the 3D-printed artificial limbs expressed gratitude and happiness over the support provided through the programme.
Among them, Bawanhun Khongwir said the prosthetic limb would help her carry out daily activities more independently. Having lived with a disability since childhood, she described it as her first experience using a prosthetic limb.
Nazareen Nongkhlaw of Mawiong Umjapung described the prosthetic limb as comfortable and easy to use. She thanked the department and partner organisations for providing the device free of cost and said it would greatly improve her mobility and daily life.
Another beneficiary, R. Talang of Shilliang Myntang, expressed happiness at receiving the artificial limb. He said he had previously depended on a walking stick for mobility and was now able to move around with greater confidence and independence.
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
