Dear Friends,

Greetings from Leonard Cheshire Disability South Asia Regional Office,

‘Empowered’ has been a very powerful communication tool, enabling us to weave- in stories n visuals from across South Asia and disseminate the same to a supportive audience that has been following our work for a long time and do hope that you are receiving your copy on time.

The issue of disability has been picking up in the region- success stories are being heard of even in the most remote corners of South Asia, new voices are emerging, and policy makers are taking ahead. However, despite the indicators being convincing enough, there is much to do.

In this issue, we bring you a special feature of the state of disabled people in Bihar after the devastating flood, which occurred in August 2008, causing widespread damage that affected over 3 million people. The article illustrates the clear vulnerability of disabled people in any disaster- natural or man made- and emphasizes the need to include the needs of disabled in any disaster management plan, other than rehabilitation measures alone.

With regular columns (Best practices, SHG, etc.) and the final edition of the management input, this issue is yet another reminder that the region is looking ahead for newer challenges, goals and accomplishments. The issue also covers new initiatives in the field from across the region, which we hope you will add to your – ‘ to follow - up’ list in future.

In our guest speak, find out what Khadim Hussain, from one of the most inaccessible places in South Asia has to say on his role as a disability activist based in FANA, Pakistan.
 

As always we thank you for your support and your interest in our mission to change attitudes towards disability. Read on and please send us your feedback and suggestions.

Until the next issue…

Wishing all the readers “ A Merry Christmas and very happy new year 2009”

Rajendra K R
Regional Representative - South Asia
Leonard Cheshire Disability
International
South Asia Regional Office