Kerala students’ pledge to build an inclusive society under Anuyatra programme for disabled people

The government of Kerala has introduced a programme ‘Anuyatra’ for welfare of people with disabilities. As part of it, students from all government aided schools and colleges across the state pledged for an inclusive society on 12 December at 10.30 am. Thousands of students were part of this pledge. The state government has received a lot of appreciation for striving towards creating an inclusive society.

The government of Kerala have always been torch-bearers of inclusion. Their many programmes and schemes for people with disabilities has been considered as models for other states. In addition, they even won a central government award for being the state that works towards empowerment of disabled community. Last week, on 12 December at 10.30 am, students from all the government aided schools and colleges in the state pledged for an inclusive society. First of its kind in India, this latest initiative as part of ‘Anuyatra’ for a disabled-friendly Kerala has won hearts already.

A unique initiative to include people with disabilities

Thousands of students from across the state was part of the pledge. The initiative was undertaken by the government of Kerala as a step for striving towards inclusion. Here are excerpts from the pledge. I understand that every person in the world is unique in their capabilities. I hereby understand that no person is bigger or smaller and I shall treat my fellow-beings accordingly with respect. The Indian constitution gives everyone a chance to live a life free of discrimination and inequality. I understand that this is applicable to people with disabilities as well. I respect all that is mentioned in the rights of persons with disabilities act, 2016 and I shall strive towards implementing them.

Biju Paul, a wheelchair user, is completing his law studies at the Government Law College in Thrissur. Biju says that to witness the pledge and become part of it was a great feeling.

The pledge was done in all government aided schools and colleges in Kerala. The national anthem was also sung along with it. I noticed that all the students said the pledge in a respectful manner. That means they understand the need for an inclusive society. It is high time that people with disabilities are included in mainstream society, especially when it comes to education. As far as I know, such a pledge is being done for the first time in the state. This is definitely a great move from the state government- Biju Paul.

‘Anuyatra’ is a venture undertaken by Kerala government to make the state disabled friendly. The latest pledge at schools was initiated by different departments of the state including the education board and social justice department.

“Such activities raises awareness about disabilities amongst kids because it is important to catch them young. The Kerala state government has introduced many activities for the disabled community. This one is truly commendable and indeed a welcome move”, says Jomy Joseph, a wheelchair user and disability rights activist from Kerala.

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