Punjab Governor Dedicates Dark Room Lab at Vani School, Emphasizes Improving Lives of Special Needs Children
Patiala, August 19
Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, deeply inspired by the efforts of Vani School for Hearing Impaired in Patiala, dedicated a Dark Room Lab, constructed at a cost of ₹20 lakh from his special funds, to children with special needs and intellectual disabilities. The lab, established by the Punjab Child Welfare Council, aims to enhance the lives of these children.
Governor Kataria emphasized that improving the lives of children with special needs is key to uplifting society and the nation as a whole. He noted that the newly established Dark Room Lab will play a vital role in helping children with intellectual disabilities lead lives comparable to others and in calming their aggressive tendencies.
The Governor praised the Punjab Child Welfare Council, which has been dedicated to children’s welfare since 1962, and urged the public and social workers to collaborate with the organization. He highlighted that recognizing and nurturing the hidden talents of special needs children can make them valuable contributors to society. Kataria commended Deputy Commissioner Dr. Preeti Yadav and the teachers of Vani School for their efforts in guiding the institution. He also lauded the Punjab government’s anti-drug campaign, stating that Punjabis, who have made significant sacrifices for the country’s freedom and contributed to its food security, must now unite to eradicate the drug menace. Citing the sacrifice of Baba Zorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh, he called on individuals to embrace a spirit of service.
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Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh, who welcomed the Governor, reaffirmed the Punjab government’s commitment, under Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, to the welfare and empowerment of children with special needs, ensuring their integration with other sections of society. Citing the example of Thomas Edison, Dr. Singh noted that special needs children possess unique abilities and are the “special flowers” of Mann’s vision for a vibrant Punjab. He assured full support for the development of Vani School, which is working to identify and nurture the talents of these students.
Dr. Pritam Sandhu, Secretary of the Punjab Child Welfare Council, welcomed the guests and shared details about the council’s initiatives, including Vani School. Deputy Commissioner Dr. Preeti Yadav expressed gratitude to Governor Kataria, Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh, and other dignitaries.
During the event, special needs students from Vani School presented a vibrant cultural program, which left Governor Kataria profoundly impressed. The event was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Isha Singal, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Kirpalvir Singh, Vani School Principal Sukhchain Virk, members of the technical committee responsible for the Dark Room Lab, and a large number of students and their parents.

