The Lions Club of Imphal Global, in association with Lions Clubs of Imphal Ningol Collective, Imphal Leimarol and Imphal Chanura, and Manipur Technical University (MTU), distributed 60 white canes to students of Government Ideal Blind School, Takyelpat.
The initiative was organised in collaboration with MTU’s Disaster Risk Reduction Club and Disaster Management Cell.
Following the distribution, the Department of Social Welfare organised a white cane awareness rally from Kangla Western Gate to the Social Welfare Office at North AOC. The rally brought together around 90 DRR Club students, 10 MTU faculty members, more than 100 volunteers, 20 Lions members and students of the blind school.
Addressing a gathering after the rally, the Director of Social Welfare stressed the importance of respecting and supporting people with visual impairments.
MTU Disaster Management Cell coordinator Kosygin Leishangthem highlighted the shortage of educational materials for visually impaired people and called for their greater inclusion in disaster management policies.
Lion Leethoi Ningombam outlined the clubs’ community service initiatives and the observance of Lions Cause and Vision Week from October 8 to 18.
A notable feature of the rally was MTU students walking alongside visually impaired students throughout the route. MTU buses later transported the students back to their school.