Blessed Bonding, an NGO for children with IDD, celebrated World Autism Awareness Day in AIDA Hall, Don Bosco School Campus, Riverbelt Colony, Dimapur, with the subject “Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).” Moamenla Yaden, the chairwoman of the Child Welfare Committee of Dimapur, was a special guest at the occasion. Moamenla stressed in her address that the emphasis was on promoting inclusivity by accepting neurodiversity and motivating society to assist people with autism. The day aimed to raise awareness about autism and advocate for its rights. Moamenla introduced the Child Welfare Committee, responsible for protecting children under 18, particularly those abandoned, orphaned, or facing abuse.
The committee provides rehabilitation, counseling, and adoption assistance under the Juvenile Justice Act. Dimapur has institutions for “Place of Safety for children with no family,” and the Child Life helpline (1098) is available for anonymous reporting. Mhiephronguno Kate, Clinical Psychologist at Dimapur District Hospital, discussed the challenges faced by autistic individuals, such as communication, social interaction, and repetitive behaviors. She emphasized the importance of understanding how autistic people think and learn, and the shift towards a child-centered education system. Advocate Moatula Ao, a panel lawyer from the Dimapur District Legal Services Authority, discussed the rights of children with disabilities and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
She highlighted the Act’s role in ensuring equality, dignity, and protection for individuals with disabilities, including reproductive rights, voting rights, and access to justice. Mount Mary College’s Department of Psychology and Special Needs Children of Mount Mary Higher Secondary School celebrated World Autism Awareness Day 2025, featuring guest speaker Dr. Althea Wotsa and 16 special needs students receiving gifts from the Department of Psychology, MMC. The event was attended by parents and caregivers.
