International Week of the Deaf People Focus laid on sign language and hearing care

IMPHAL, Sep 23 (DIPR)
The “International Week of the Deaf People, 2024” was observed today at Classic Grande, Chingmeirong, under the theme “Sign up for Sign Language Rights.”
The event was jointly organized by the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Deafness, National Health Mission, and Directorate of Health Services, Manipur.
Health & Family Welfare Minister Dr Sapam Ranjan Singh attended the observance as the chief guest and highlighted the significance of learning and using sign language for communication with the deaf community.
In his address, the Health Minister stressed the importance of ear care and the need for prevention strategies to combat deafness.
Dr Ranjan cited data from April 2023, revealing that approximately 3,900 people in Manipur suffer from hearing loss, with a 20% risk of hearing loss observed in children.
He further informed that around 9.9 percent of the total population of India suffer hearing loss, and of these, 51.2 percent are persons above 60 years of age.
He cautioned people against unsafe practices such as allowing others (nonprofessionals) to clean ears, which can lead  to injury and hearing loss.
Dr Ranjan mentioned that individuals with hearing impairments can access rehabilitation support through Health or Social Welfare Departments.
He highlighted various Government schemes offered at Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) to support those in need of treatment and rehabilitation services.
Speaking about rising Dengue cases in Manipur, he urged the public to learn about the vector borne disease and take up precautionary measures.
Special Secretary, Health and Family Welfare, Hungyo Worshang urged the public to learn sign language and take advantage of the various Government schemes available through the Social Welfare Department.
He pointed out that many, especially the poor, are unaware of these schemes and called on the media to play a crucial role in spreading awareness about these opportunities.
Dr O Sanahanbi Devi, Director of Health Services, Manipur; Ngangom Uttam Singh, Director of Social Welfare; Dr N Dinesh Singh, State Mission Director, NHM; and Dr Th Sudhiranjan, Professor and Head of the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, RIMS attended the event.