Shillong, Aug 4: Meghalaya took a big step toward inclusive governance on Tuesday with a special sensitisation programme aimed at making government offices more accessible for employees with visual impairment.
Organised by the Office of the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Social Welfare Department, in collaboration with the Secretariat Administration Department and Bengaluru-based Trestle Labs, the event focused on “Assistive Technology and Digital Accessibility for Government Employees” under the theme “Promoting an Inclusive Workplace for Employees with Visual Impairment.”
Addressing the gathering, Adviser on Social Welfare Paul Lyngdoh stressed that technology must be used to break barriers in public service. He said the initiative would help the state build a more inclusive ecosystem where ability matters more than disability.
In a powerful message on perception, Lyngdoh remarked that “eyesight alone does not determine vision.”
“There are many with perfect eyesight but no vision, and others with little or no eyesight who have extraordinary vision,” he said, urging officials to adopt a more empathetic and inclusive approach. He also encouraged persons with disabilities to see their potential, not their limitations.
SAD Secretary Swapnil Tembe highlighted ongoing efforts to make the Secretariat more accessible — including ramps, improved restroom facilities, and other disability-friendly features. He invited feedback and suggestions from employees to further improve accessibility across all government offices.
As part of the programme, Lyngdoh handed over the ‘Kibo’ assistive technology device to the Secretariat Administration Department for official use. The device helps persons with visual impairment read printed and digital documents independently.
The event was attended by Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Lyngkor Kynjing, Director of Social Welfare Saloni Verma, senior officials from various departments, and other participants.
With digital tools and a shift in mindset, officials said the aim is to ensure Meghalaya’s government workplaces are not just accessible on paper, but truly inclusive in practice.
