Srinagar: Voluntary Medicare Society (VMS), in collaboration with the Department of Students’ Welfare, University of Kashmir, and EnAble India, today observed World Braille Day at the VMS Auditorium, reaffirming its commitment to equality, inclusion, and empowerment of persons with visual impairment. The observance was held under the theme “Empowering Lives: From Six Dots to Digital Inclusion.”
The programme commenced with Tilawat-e-Quran, recited by Majid Khaliq, a student of the VMS Parivartan Centre.
Prof. Masooda Yaseen, Vice President, VMS, formally welcomed the Chief Guest and other distinguished dignitaries. In her address, she noted that World Braille Day is observed globally on January 4, marking the birth anniversary of Louis Braille, the inventor of the Braille system. Recognized by the United Nations in 2019, the day underscores the importance of Braille as a vital means of communication and learning for persons with visual impairment. She highlighted that Braille continues to open doors to education and independence for millions worldwide. Referring to the Indian context, she emphasized that the introduction of the Unified Bharati Braille Standard, released on World Braille Day 2025, represents a significant step towards ensuring digital and educational consistency across nine Indian scripts.
Prof. (Dr.) Mir Mohammad Maqbool, Hon’ble President, VMS, in his opening remarks, emphasized the transformative role of Braille in dismantling educational barriers and fostering self-reliance among persons with visual impairment. He underlined the need for universal accessibility and equal opportunities, stressing that inclusion must remain central to all development initiatives.
An insightful session on the relevance of World Braille Day was delivered by Mrs. Rifat Yasmeen, Braille Instructor, VMS Parivartan Centre, who highlighted the life and enduring legacy of Louis Braille and explained how his invention continues to empower visually impaired learners across the globe.
Dr. Bashir A. Lone, Director, VMS, reiterated that Braille remains fundamental to building an inclusive, equitable, and compassionate society. He stressed the need to strengthen Braille education alongside emerging assistive and digital technologies, noting that World Braille Day 2026 serves as a powerful reminder that true empowerment lies in enabling access—from six dots to a digitally inclusive future.
The event was graced by the presence of eminent guests including Mohd Shaheel, Coordinator Special cell, University of Kashmir Dr. Zaffar Iqbal, Former Director, CRC Srinagar; Dr. Shawkat Rashid Wani, Professor, Directorate of Distance Education, University of Kashmir; and Mr. Kishore Kumar, Joint Director, School Education Department, Kashmir, who was the Chief Guest on the occasion. The Chief Guest lauded the sustained efforts of VMS in empowering persons with visual impairment and other disabilities and assured continued support and collaboration in advancing inclusive education and rehabilitation.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Mohammad Ayoub Bhat, Administrator, VMS, who expressed sincere gratitude to the University of Kashmir, EnAble India, media representatives, VMS staff, students,parents, participants, and all stakeholders for their support. He reaffirmed VMS’s unwavering commitment to dignity, inclusion, and empowerment of persons with visual impairment.
