Shillong, Jun 5: A two-day hands-on 3D Prosthetic training programme for Prosthetic and Orthotic professionals from across the North East began in Shillong today, seeking to enhance rehabilitation services in the region.
The programme aims to strengthen the capacity of rehabilitation professionals, promote inter-departmental collaboration, and facilitate the adoption of emerging 3D prosthetic and orthotic technologies in rehabilitation services across the North Eastern Region.
Professionals from the region are participating in the training to acquire practical skills and technical knowledge in advanced 3D printing technologies used in the production of assistive and rehabilitation devices.
The training is being organised by the Office of the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities under the Social Welfare Department, Government of Meghalaya, in collaboration with the Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya National Institute for Persons with Physical Disabilities (Divyangjan), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and Instalimb India Pvt. Ltd.
The inaugural function of the training programme was held at U Soso Tham Auditorium. A major highlight was the fitting and distribution of 3D-printed artificial limbs to 12 persons with disabilities who had undergone amputations.
Cabinet Minister Sanbor Shullai emphasised the importance of innovative partnerships among government entities, rehabilitation professionals, and private innovators. He reaffirmed the commitment of both the central and state governments to promote inclusion and accessibility through quality rehabilitation services.
He highlighted the role of advanced technologies such as 3D scanning, digital design, artificial intelligence and modern manufacturing techniques in making prosthetic care more accessible and affordable, particularly in remote areas. He also underscored the importance of capacity building among rehabilitation professionals and expressed confidence that the knowledge and skills imparted through the training programme would contribute significantly to improving rehabilitation services across the region.
The programme was attended by Commissioner and Secretary, Social Welfare Department, Pravin Bakshi, Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of Instalimb India, Shoichiro Adachi, along with government officials, rehabilitation professionals and beneficiaries.
