by Fr Joaquim Fernandes for BIS Mumbai

In the Silver Jubilee year of the Parish of Mary Help of Christians, and Don Bosco High School, Naigaon (E), both run by the Salesians of Don Bosco, proudly hosted and celebrated Persons with Disabilities Day. This special event was organized under the leadership of the Rector, Fr Dominic Martis, in collaboration with Apang Seva, a non-governmental interdenominational voluntary organization led by Fr Michael Gonsalves, Director, along with his dedicated team of social workers.

Nearly 350 individuals with disabilities gathered to celebrate the 38th Annual Day of the Apang Seva Trust, representing communities from the Vasai region, Palghar District, Maharashtra.

The Apang Seva Trust, an association comprising over 400 individuals with disabilities, is dedicated to empowering persons with disabilities through various initiatives. The organization provides guidance, financial assistance, support for obtaining artificial limbs to enhance mobility, and organizes disability certificate camps. Additionally, it conducts awareness and sensitization programs to promote understanding and inclusion within the community.

The event began with an inter-denominational prayer service, offering praise to God and invoking blessings upon all those gathered. Fr Michael Gonsalves, Director of the Apang Seva Trust, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Fr Dominic Martis, the Parish Pastoral Committee, and the youth group for their efforts in coordinating and hosting the event at the Don Bosco Campus. He also highlighted the various services provided by the Trust and elaborated on the organization’s ongoing initiatives aimed at uplifting and empowering persons with disabilities within our society.

It was a joy to see the persons with disabilities participate in various games with unstoppable determination. They participated in indoor and outdoor games, collaborative group games and danced to the tune of popular music.   

Mr Rohan’s mother expressed her heartfelt gratitude, stating, “I deeply appreciate the efforts put into organizing this event. My son has an intellectual disability and is 18 years old. Witnessing the love and respect shown by so many people here fills me with hope and strength. As a single parent working as a domestic helper to support my child, I am truly grateful to the Apang Seva Trust and its collaborators. With their support, I know I can!”

Fr Dominic Martis, Rector of Don Bosco’s Naigaon, welcomed the gathering and said, “It is a joyous occasion for our pastoral and educative setting to host the programme to uplift the physically disabled persons. The celebration promotes an understanding of disability issues and helps us to mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.”

His Lordship, Bishop Thomas D’Souza of the Diocese of Vasai, emphasized that every person with a physical disability serves as a source of inspiration, teaching us resilience and determination in our lives. He encouraged everyone to cultivate a compassionate heart, emulating our Good Shepherd, and to serve with joy, gratitude, and hope.

Bishop D’Souza also assured support for transport mobility and officially launched the Trust’s Annual Magazine, ABHANG, which was released by him during the event.

The Chief Guest, Mr Kanhaiya Bhoir, expressed his appreciation for the diligent efforts put into organizing the event.  He acknowledged the courage and resilience displayed by the participants, emphasizing the importance of recognizing their potential and fostering a culture of inclusion.

A highlight of the day was the presentation of special honours. Among the awardees was Master Swayantak Patil, an extraordinary 8-year-old swimmer who achieved the remarkable feat of swimming from Arnala Fort to Vasai Fort in the Arabian Sea.

Nature Photographer, Mr Sylvester Alphonso was honoured for his beautiful book "Bird World”.  His exemplary service to persons with disability was appreciated.

The prestigious Jidd (Iron Will) Puraskar for this year was awarded by Bishop Thomas to Ms Anushka Naik. She successfully completed her Master of Commerce Degree, passed her banking exams, and is currently employed at Bassein Catholic Bank in Vasai.

The Chairman of Bassein Catholic Bank, Mr Benauld Dais, extended his heartfelt congratulations to Ms Anushka for her remarkable perseverance and determination. He reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting persons with disabilities by actively creating opportunities for them and promoting awareness to foster an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. As Ms Naik was unable to attend the event, her mother received the award on her behalf. During the felicitation, her mother expressed heartfelt gratitude to the dignitaries, acknowledging the significance of this memorable occasion.

A large number of children and adults with special needs participated in the program, showcasing their remarkable resilience and unwavering determination. These individuals included those with physical impairments or orthopedic handicaps (resulting from injury, damage, or deformities in the limbs), intellectual impairments or developmental delays (characterized by slow or incomplete brain development), visual impairments (caused by damage or injury to the eyes), and hearing impairments (resulting from damage or injury to the ears). Their courage and perseverance served as an inspiration to all in attendance.

The program officially ended with a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing deep gratitude to all the individuals, organizations, and volunteers whose support and contributions made the day truly meaningful. Special acknowledgements were given to the event organizers, sponsors, dignitaries, and the dedicated team from the Apang Seva Trust, whose collective efforts ensured the success of the event. The closing remarks reflected the spirit of unity, hope, and empowerment that defined the day, leaving a lasting impact on everyone present.