Odisha – Balunkeswar Parida (ST6079)

Balunkeswar Parida is a nine year old boy with Cerebral Palsy studying in class-IV of Dharmakirti School, of Block Brahmagiri. He is the only child of Mr. Jalandhar Parida and Mrs. Kumudini Parida of Dharmakirti village. Mrs Kumudini Parida is also affected  by poliomyelitis. The child was identified during community survey by the SSA R.P. (CWSN ) and IEV in the year 2010. His name was enrolled after due consultation with parents and Class Teacher.

Balunkeswar has Athetoid Cerebral Palsy with broken speech. He is able to stand without support for a minute. He is able to walk with rollator walker. He has received the rollator  and wheel chair after attending medical assessment camps. He can write few words or sentences with his right hand but it takes him a lot of time.

The SSA Resource Person has developed an Inclusive Education Programme of Balunkeswar with consultation and recommendation of his parent, class teacher and headmaster. The child has received academic support through classroom activities and remedial teaching. He has been encouraged  to participate in group activities rather than individual training. He is being accessed at block resource center once a week for physical therapy and speech training. He is also promoted to develop his vocabulary and writing skill by attending the resource center.

His parents have underwent various training programme conducted by SSA,Puri like physio therapy camp, speech therapy, parents training, medical assessment camp to bring awareness among the parents, updating their knowledge and skill to support Balunkeswar.

At present Balunkeswar is one of the regular studenst and a motivator of others through his ability. He has been empowered through linkage with Banishree Scholarship and escort allowance. His co-curricular activities performance is commendable and he is a dynamic personality among the peer groups.