State-level competitions for children with autism were successfully organised by Nanda Siddha Medical College in association with Erode Siragugal and the North Rotary Club.
The event was conducted with the objective of bringing out the unique talents of children with autism and encouraging their self-confidence and social participation. The programme was presided over by Minister for Revenue and Disaster Management K.A. Sengottaiyan. Minister for Handlooms Vijay Balaji and former Minister K.V. Ramalingam participated as special guests.
The event was attended by V. Shanmugan, Chairman of Sri Nanda Educational Trust; Mrs. Bhanumathi Shanmugan, member of the Trust; Joint Managing Trustees S. Nandakumar Pradeep and S. Thirumoorthy; and District Revenue Officer Santhakumar, who were present as dignitaries.
Earlier, Dr. Krithika, Child Psychologist at the college, delivered the welcome address.
Speaking on the occasion, the Ministers emphasised that organising state-level competitions for children with autism, recognising their talents and creating equal opportunities for them are important responsibilities of society. They also stressed the vital role played by parents, teachers, doctors and society in nurturing and developing the abilities of such children.
More than 100 children with autism from various parts of Tamil Nadu participated in the competitions along with their parents and special educators. The event provided the children with an opportunity to showcase their talents with great enthusiasm and joy.
The winners were presented with prizes and felicitated by Hon'ble Minister K.A. Sengottaiyan.
Subsequently, under the supervision of Administrative Officer Dr. G. Dharmaraj, doctors, postgraduate trainees and students of Nanda Siddha Medical College provided medical consultations to the participants.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Menaka, Principal of Nanda Siddha Medical College.