Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar during his two days visit to Mandi district visited Visually and Hearing Impaired School, Sundernagar today.The Governor said that these children were special as they have special qualities. He said that it was our responsibility to understand the specialities of these children and give them equal opportunities in life. He said that one can acknowledge the qualities of these students when amongst them.The Governor said that there were different problems due to negativity in the society, but from these children we get to learn how to move forward with a positive attitude in spite of difficulties.On this occasion, he announced rupees one lakh to the institute from his discretionary grant. He also announced to start smart classes in the Institute.
The Governor also interacted with the students and answered their queries. While replying to the students about the experience at Himachal Pradesh, the Governor said that the state feels like home. He said that he had visited Mandi for the first time and he wants to visit it again.The Governor also visited the residential area of the Institute and took stock of the arrangements made their by the authorities.Chairperson, Hospital Welfare Section of State Red Cross and Member, Board of Indian Red Cross Dr. Sadhna Thakur said that she was fortunate to have the opportunity to meet the students. She said the capability and incapability were only the thought process of the mind. These students were exceptionally talented and would have a lasting effect on everyone with their talent, she said.She said that there was also a need to learn their language so that we could communicate with them easily and for these special camps should be organized.
She suggested the concerned department to work in this direction.Secretary to Governor Vivek Bhatia who is also holding the charge of Director ESOMSA welcomed the Governor and thanked him for sparing his valuable time to visit the institute. He added that the benevolence of Governor would prove inspirational to the students. Principal of the Institute Neelam welcomed the Governor and other dignitaries. She also briefed about the activities of the Institute. She said that at present 118 girls were studying in the institute which had been set up in 1990.A cultural programme was also performed by the students of the Institute.Earlier, the Governor was welcomed by officials of district administration on reaching Sundernagar helipad. Later, the Governor also interacted with Deputy Commissioner Mandi, Arindam Chaudhary, Superintendent of Police Shalini Agnihotri and other officers at BBMB Guest House, Sundernagar.