National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities NIEPMD

INTRODUCTION
National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities (NIEPMD) was established in the year 2005 in East Coast Road in Chennai, Tamil Nadu under the Social Justice and Empowerment Department of Disability Affairs. NIEPMD is a rehabilitation centre which helps the disabled person to be independent. The vision of this organization is to provide equal opportunities, accessible environment, positive attitudes and appropriate, affordable, acceptable and available technological interventions for the multiple disabled people to have a better life.

ADMINISTRATION AND ACTIVITIES

The organization is run by Central Government of India and provides various services like Diagnostic, Therapeutic, Educational and Vocational services. The organizational structure has Minister at the top level followed by Principal Secretary, then joint secretary, then Director and Head of Department, Assistant professors, rehabilitation officers and finally special Teachers. They also offer 3 Diploma courses Special Education like Cerebral Plasy, Deaf-Blind and Autism Special Disorder and also offer B.Ed in Special Education.

LEARNING
The visit to NIEPMD was an enriching experience and I have learnt that disability is not a disease. The dedication and attention shown towards their patients was very inspirational and the centre stands as a vital role model for every aspiring social work student. The centre provides hope for every disabled person to live an independent life. I have leant from the centre that aspiration with inspiration will give us success.