By Matters India Reporter
Lucknow, Dec 3, 2021: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Aditynath awarded a Catholic organization that works for for differently challenged people on December 3, the International Day of Disabled Persons.
The award was presented to Father Shibu Thomas, cofounder of Premdham (abode of love) Ashram, a non-profit organization at Najibabad in the diocese of Bijnor. It has been working for the advancement, rehabilitation and empowerment of persons with disabilities.
The citation of the state award says it recognizes and honors Premdham’s contributions to promote inclusive education for persons with disabilities. The award strongly reflects the state government’s continued efforts and focus to provide support to persons with disabilities and encourage organizations and non-profits engaged in their service to work for their empowerment and rehabilitation.
Commenting on the award, Father Benny Thekkekara, cofounder and director of Premdham, expressed gratitude to the Uttar Pradesh government for its support and encouragement to their work.
“I believe this recognition will definitely motivate and encourage several other non-profit organizations and individuals to work towards building an equal world for the less-privileged,” Father Thekkekara said.
The director also thanked the people of Najibabad and the district administration for t”heir consistent support and participation in what we are doing to ensure equal and equitable opportunities for persons with disabilities.”
Premdham, founded by Fathers Thomas and Thekkekara in 2009, serves and empowers persons with disabilities who are orphans. It is located in Bijnor district of Uttar Pradesh. Currently, the ashram has 178 residential members who are cared for by a team of volunteers.
Premdham is a a top player among rehabilitation centers in Bijnor. It acts as a one-stop destination for differently abled from the area as well as from other parts of the district. It offers a wide range of services to cater to the varied requirements of the differently abled people.
In addition to providing food, shelter and clothing to persons with disabilities, Premdham provides them educational and skill development opportunities for their holistic development.
The ashram also conducts regular outreach programs in the district to identify and support persons with disabilities who come from poor economic backgrounds.
The organization also works closely with the district administration to help persons with disabilities access government support.
Father Thekkekara claims that Premdham’s interventions in the past 12 years have led to notable changes in the way disability is perceived in the district.
Commenting on the award, Bishop Vincent Nellaiparambil of Bijnor said, “Our interventions have focused on upholding the dignity of persons with disabilities and providing them equal opportunities. It is gratifying to see that many young persons with disabilities are willing to come forward and take a shot at life. We continue to remain committed to their service and will ensure that together, we are able to create a better world for them.”