*K.M. Pandurang attends 13th Anniversary of Panchkula Gaushala Trust and 3rd Anniversary of ‘Kalam Express’ as Chief Guest*

*Right opportunities can help children with special needs turn challenges into strengths: Commissioner and Secretary K.M. Pandurang*

 *Special-needs children win hearts with cultural performances; K.M. Pandurang applauds their talent and confidence*

 *K.M. Pandurang calls for a fully equipped institution for special-needs children in Panchkula*

 *‘Kalam Express’ bringing education, treatment and self-confidence to children with special needs: K.M. Pandurang*

 Chandigarh, October 5: Commissioner and Secretary, Haryana Information, Public Relations, Languages and Culture Department, Sh K.M. Pandurang, said that the talent of children with special needs cannot be confined by limitations. Their physical challenges do not define their potential. With the right opportunities, training, medical care, love and encouragement, these children can become a source of inspiration for their families and society.

Sh Pandurang was addressing the gathering as the Chief Guest at an event held at Mata Mansa Devi Gaudham to mark the 13th anniversary of the Panchkula Gaushala Trust and the 3rd anniversary of ‘Kalam Express’.

He said that the government and social organizations are undertaking various initiatives, including ‘Kalam Express’, for the educational and social empowerment of children with special needs. However, there is a need to strengthen institutional efforts in this direction so that education, healthcare and self-confidence can reach these children and bring greater opportunities into their lives. He assured that every possible assistance would be extended to children with special needs, both personally and on behalf of the government.

*Emphasis on fully equipped facility for special-needs children in Panchkula*

Sh Pandurang said that a fully equipped institution should be developed in Panchkula for children with special needs, with dedicated facilities for their education, healthcare, training and overall development. Such an institution, he said, could cater to children from across the state and the country while also providing much-needed support to their parents.

He said that while the Panchkula Gaushala Trust, dedicated to the service and protection of cows, is celebrating its 13th anniversary, ‘Kalam Express’, which is working to bring education, treatment and self-confidence to children with special needs, is completing its third year.

He said that in Indian culture, Gaumata symbolizes compassion, nurturing and coexistence. Cow service is not merely about protecting cattle; it is also about keeping alive a spirit of compassion and responsibility towards every living being. He appreciated the Panchkula Gaushala Trust for carrying forward this spirit through its work over the past 13 years.

*‘Kalam Express’ taking education to children*

Commending the ‘Kalam Express’ initiative, Sh Pandurang said that it is an important means of taking education, specialized training and physiotherapy to children who are unable to attend mainstream schools due to their physical conditions. Developed on the ‘School on Wheels’ concept, the initiative aims to take education and essential support directly to children who need it. He said that the initiative was launched in 2023 and subsequently received support from Shri Dhanwantari Ayurvedic College and Hospital. The Indian Red Cross Society, Panchkula, has also played an important role in taking the initiative forward.

Sh Pandurang expressed his appreciation to the doctors and specialists of Shri Dhanwantari Ayurvedic College and Hospital, members of the Red Cross Society, teachers associated with the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, physiotherapists, volunteers and all other collaborators for their contribution. He said that their collective efforts in the fields of special education and physiotherapy are bringing meaningful and positive changes to the lives of many children.

*Special-needs children impress audience with cultural performances*

Special-needs school children presented colourful and engaging cultural performances during the programme, winning appreciation from the audience. Praising their talent and confidence, Sh Pandurang said that their performances on stage were a reflection of their growing self-confidence.

He presented school bags to the children and encouraged them for their achievements. Senior citizens above the age of 75, teachers and physiotherapists were also felicitated on the occasion.

Following the programme, Commissioner and Secretary Sh K.M. Pandurang visited the Gaushala and performed Gaumata Seva by feeding the cows jaggery and green fodder.

Those present on the occasion included Sh Kulbhushan Goyal, President, Panchkula Gaushala Trust; Sh Ajay Mittal, District BJP President; Sh Jai Kaushik, District General Secretary; DEEO Suman Chaudhary; DEEO Ramesh Batra; BJP Media Liaison Head Praveen Atre, Trust member Sh Deepak Bansal and other dignitaries, teachers, students and their parents.