Individuals with Down syndrome share more in common with their peers than they differ. Children manage extraordinary and ordinary feats daily, and this condition impacts young adults. Yet, they hold aspirations and resolve to go towards fulfilling them.

Down Syndrome is a disorder caused by excessive hereditary material hindering physical and mental growth in a person; one of the most established genetic disorders, it is identified by its 21st chromosome. It can't be cured or avoided. Approximately 32,000 cases have been documented in India.

Scientists believe those influenced have various characteristics similar to typically developing individuals. Breaking biased beliefs about the limitations of those sufferers, these people frequently display exceptional capabilities and hopes for their future direction and dedication to reach their intended goals.

Although Down Syndrome leads to learning obstacles that can result in developmental slowdowns, not all fields exhibit equally significant impacts from said condition. In commemoration of World Down Syndrome Day 2023, the Manovikas Charitable Society aims at raising awareness so that people in India become With Us Not For Us - a term denoting equal treatment on par with non-disabled persons and active involvement towards the betterment of disabled persons' lives.

Manovikas has set some highly vital messages suggesting disabled individuals should possess the right to shape their path without discrimination or imposed boundaries, along with taking part in decision-making relevant to them (including policy decisions).

Since 2012, the Manovikas Charitable Society has been celebrating World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), intended to spread awareness around the globe. Every March 21st, the Manovikas family and those in the Down syndrome community strive to ensure rights, inclusion, and well-being for individuals with Down syndrome.

About Manovikas

Manovikas is an esteemed NGO registered by the National Trust, committed explicitly to helping persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Intellectual Disability/Mental Retardation, and Multiple Disabilities. As State Nodal Agency (SNAC) under National Trust, they are regularly involved in supporting WDSD activities in Delhi. 

On this particular occasion, we'd like you to join this milestone event on March 21st by speaking up about it or lighting every building, monument, house and garden etc., in blue and gold - these colours symbolise support for persons with Down Syndrome.

In recognition of World Down Syndrome Day 2023, MCS collaborated with SNAC & Chandra Bhushan Singh Memorial Speech & Hearing Institute)(CBSM) Dwarka Delhi to host a program featuring over 500 persons with disabilities, including persons with Down syndrome participants displaying their talents. In addition to communication skills training and easy-read instruction for intellectually/developmentally disabled people -this gathering sought to inform attendees about work opportunities after school, education prospects, skill development options and much more. The purpose was to foster inclusive living among everyone in the inclusive community.

With Us Not For Us

Manovikas is dedicated to increasing the quality of life for individuals with Down syndrome and promoting their privilege to be incorporated equally with others. Everyone in Society and Community should stand up for Disability and especially persons with Down syndrome. Let's motivate the youngsters to raise their voices about whatever matters to them! It could be as straightforward as what you like to have for breakfast. But if it is significant, speak out about it! 

We advocate for human rights via Manovikas's Manbhavan Friendship Circle (a Self Advocacy Group). All persons possess human rights. Persons with disabilities bear the same human rights as everyone else. Sadly, several persons with disabilities come across prejudice every day. For instance, they may not obtain the education or health care they require or be shut out from activities in their community. Frequently their capabilities are disregarded.

That is why we have the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), Rights of Persons with Disability Act 2016 (RPD Act) and National Trust Act 2000 set up. These Acts represent directions and an agreement by our society to make sure that individuals with and without disabilities are given fair treatment. It outlines the steps governments must take to support all persons with disabilities to realise their rights.

Empowering the Voice of Self Advocates with World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD)

Adya Verma is a 24-year-old Self Advocate and, before the outbreak of COVID-19, worked on an ad-hoc basis for Springdales School as a teacher's assistant. She underwent her schooling from nursery to class 9 in an inclusive setup from the same school located at Pusa Road, Delhi. Later she took classes 10 and 12 from NIOS. During her studies, Adya participated in several tournaments held by Special Olympics, like Bocci, Race, Badminton, and Shotput and came home with multiple medals. Additionally, she is a Member of the Self Advocacy team - Manbhavan at Manovikas, who assists in forming Easy Read Documents and expresses their vision during seminars and workshops.

Celebrate Miss Rashmi Rekha Sahu’s Triumph over Triṣomy Syndrome this World Down Syndrome Day!

Miss Rashmi Rekha Sahu has achieved great heights in Odissi Dancing, despite her Triṣomy Syndrome. Her parents and instructors have immensely supported her and invested their time and resources to help her succeed. Recently, she was awarded the Sangeet Visharad Pratham Khand (IV Year) from Pracheen Kala, an acknowledgement recognised in a wide variety of levels that extend beyond regional boundaries. She is truly an inspiration to all who endeavour to shape society and reach its immense potential.