Sugamya bharat abhiya Social Audit was conducted at selected Govt. Departments, Schools and STNM hospital Gangtok by CRC Sikkim jointly with Women and Child Senior Citizen and Divyangjan Welfare Depar

Gangtok, Sikkim:

In furtherance of the objectives of the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan (Accessible India Campaign),
a Social Audit was successfully conducted at selected Government Departments, Schools, and
STNM Hospital, Gangtok. The audit was carried out by the Composite Regional Centre (CRC) Sikkim,
in joint collaboration with the Women and Child, Senior Citizen and Divyangjan Welfare
Department, Government of Sikkim.

The social audit aimed to assess the accessibility of public infrastructure and services
for Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), senior citizens, children, and other vulnerable
groups, in line with the provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016,
and the goals of the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan.

During the audit, teams conducted on-site inspections to evaluate physical accessibility
features, including ramps, handrails, accessible toilets, signage, tactile paths,
elevators, and entry and exit points. Particular emphasis was laid on ensuring
barrier-free access within office buildings, educational institutions, and healthcare
facilities, including STNM Hospital, to provide inclusive and dignified access to
essential services.

The audit team also interacted with officials, staff, students, patients, and visitors
to gather user feedback on existing facilities and challenges faced by persons with
disabilities. Gaps identified during the assessment were documented, and practical
recommendations were provided to the concerned authorities for necessary improvements
and compliance with accessibility norms.

Officials from CRC Sikkim highlighted that such social audits play a vital role in
sensitising stakeholders, promoting universal design, and ensuring that public spaces
are inclusive and accessible for all citizens. The Women and Child, Senior Citizen and
Divyangjan Welfare Department reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening accessibility
infrastructure across the State and taking timely follow-up action on the audit findings.

The initiative reflects a collaborative effort towards building an inclusive,
barrier-free Sikkim, ensuring equal participation and access to services for all sections
of society, in the true spirit of the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan.