Chandigarh, December 3: A Cme-cum-Workshop on World Disabled Day, on ‘Genetics in clinical practice for prevention and management of disability’ was organized by the Genetic Centre, Government Medical College &- Hospital, Chandigarh on 3rd December 2008. The workshop was inaugurated by Ms. Raji P Shrivastava, Special Secretary, Finance & Director, Higher Education. Porf. B.N.S.Walia, former Director PGIMER was the Guest of Honour.
Ms.Srivastava in her inaugural address said that Chandigarh administration is committed to firm and complete support to differently abled persons. It is important how the society and nation views such individuals. She said, "There is more acceptance, feeling and compassion for such people now. Our city needs a bouquet of institutions that cater to disabled. We are all committed to do our bit in this endeavor. As scattered individuals we cannot do much, but as empowered institute we can certainly do a lot."
Director Principal, Prof. Raj Bahadur, in his address informed that administration has perceived a need to establish a DNA lab to resolve dispute over parentage issues. Dr. B.N.S. Walia said that 2-4 of all disabilities results from metabolic and genetic causes. 10 of all children born have some degree of disability. This number transforms to around 6 lakhs births per year of children with disability in India. He defined -beautiful’, when the weakest of the weak, which cannot raise their voices, are looked after. According to this test, Chandigarh is the city beautiful. A child with disability poses a great burden on family as mother cannot work, take care of other children and family income also suffers. We have to keep these factors in mind while dealing with persons with disabilities. We cannot judge parents perception. We should give them choices and help them attain the choices.
There are only 12 genetic centres all over India. Services can only be created if Medical Council of India makes it mandatory to have clinical genetics as part of MBBS curriculum. He urged the medical students, "If you cannot do something to cure, then atleast show you care. There was also a discussion with parents regarding various causes of genetic disorders where parents raised questions regarding planning for next issue. The questions were answered by experts from AIIMS, PGIMER and GMCH.