Bhopal: Under the leadership of Prof. (Dr.) Ajai Singh, Executive Director of AIIMS Bhopal, the institute celebrated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) and the Foundation Day of its Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) Department with great enthusiasm and dedication. This year’s theme, “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future,” highlighted the critical role of inclusivity, empowerment, and equality in shaping a better and more equitable society. Speaking about the significance of the day, Prof. Singh said, “This day reminds us of our collective responsibility to build an inclusive society. Persons with disabilities are not just beneficiaries but leaders and active contributors to a sustainable future. The event was led by Prof. (Dr.) Rajnish Joshi, Dean Academics, as the Organizing Chairman, and Dr. Vithal Prakash Puri, Associate Professor of the PMR Department, as the Organizing Secretary.
Dr. Bertha A. D. Rathinam, Head of the Department of Anatomy, attended the event as the chief guest. Colonel (Dr.) Ajit Kumar, Deputy Director (Administration) shared his personal experience during the event and emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive outlook in life. He said, “To lead a fulfilling life, one must leave behind negativity and embrace positivity.” Prominent dignitaries including Prof. (Dr.) Rehan Ul-Haq, Dean Research; Prof. (Dr.) Amit Agarwal, Dean Nursing & PMD; Professor of Orthopedics, Dr. John Santoshi, and Assistant Professor of PMR, Dr. Anuradha Divakar Shenoy, along with physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and vocational counselors also attended the event.