Srinagar, Press Release: Voluntary Medicare Society (VMS), in collaboration with Government Degree College (GDC) Uri, successfully organized “Reading Without Seeing” Workshop on 15th April 2026 at GDC Uri. The initiative is followed by a two-day Mobile Van Campaign across remote areas of Uri under the #SeeAMillion initiative, supported by Enable India, under the theme “Reach the Unreached.”
The workshop was graced by Prof. Abdul Majeed Chalkoo, Principal of GDC Uri; Prof. Masooda Yaseen, Vice President, VMS; Mr. Mohammad Ayoub Bhat, Administrator of VMS, Vice Principal, GDC Uri; faculty members of DGC; staff from the Parivartan Centre of VMS; and witnessed enthusiastic participation of more than 150 students from across the Uri region.
The primary objective of the workshop was to create awareness about inclusion, accessibility, and independent living for persons with visual impairments. Participants were introduced to a wide range of assistive technologies, including screen readers, mobile-based applications, and low-vision aids. Demonstrations of inclusive digital platforms enabled participants to explore accessible ways of reading books, accessing educational content, and enhancing their quality of life.
Beyond the technical sessions, the workshop provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and interaction, highlighting the challenges faced by persons with visual impairments and promoting a collective approach toward building an inclusive society.
As a continuation of the initiative, VMS, with the support of the J&K Social Welfare Department, will conduct a two-day Mobile Van Campaign (April 16–17, 2026) to reach far-flung and underserved communities in Uri. The campaign will focus on engaging persons with visual impairments and their immediate ecosystem, including families, caregivers, and local volunteers.
Through doorstep outreach, the campaign will offer hands-on exposure to accessible daily living solutions, inclusive education, livelihood opportunities, and assistive technologies. It aims to build awareness, instill confidence, and create a supportive environment that encourages independent living for persons with visual impairments.
