PUNARBASA, an organization working for the last decade in Kendrapara district for therapy services, awareness, and empowerment of persons with disabilities, organized the 2nd edition of its discussion series titled “Dialogue on Disability” at the PUNARBASA auditorium on 7th February, 2026.

In this phase of the programme, Dr. Tanwi Shams, Assistant Professor of Law and Director, Centre for Disability, Law & Advocacy, National Law University Odisha, joined as the guest speaker and delivered a lecture on the topic “Disability and Law in India.”

She spoke extensively about disability rights, legal safeguards, inclusive approaches, and the importance of a supportive social system in the lives of persons with disabilities. She also explained how an enabling environment and inclusive legal framework help in nurturing the inherent talents and skills of differently abled persons. Her lecture provided participants with diverse perspectives on disability, law, and social inclusion.

A question-and-answer session was later conducted by the founder of PUNARBASA, Biraja Routray. Kendrapara Social Security Officer Sudeepa Mohapatra, District Social Security Officer Amsar Mandal, Social Security Officer Sudhansu Shekhar Behura, Khirod Kar, teacher Nrusingh Charan Tripathy, Pujaku Siksha Yatri Shivani, Priyadarshini Bhola, and Rajendra Mohapatra raised various questions related to disability rights and social issues.

“Dialogue on Disability”

At the beginning of the programme, PUNARBASA Assistant Secretary Bansidhar Mohanty felicitated the guest speaker with flowers and a garland.

The programme was attended by several members of the local community, retired administrators, and social workers, including Jagmohan Hota, Bandramani Malik, headmaster Swapnashu Kumar Das, Banchhanidhi Das, Shrimati Devi Charitable Trust head Nazar Bhuban Mohan Daya, Block Resource Teacher Shri Shridhar Bhola, herbal practitioner Narendra Kumar Sahu, and professionals associated with therapy services for persons with disabilities

The programme was coordinated by organization members Zahid Khan, Sanjib Kumar Jena, and Dharanidhar Sethi.