DSMNRU Forges Strategic Alliance with Indian Armed Forces for Comprehensive Soldier Rehabilitation
In a significant development aimed at supporting India's military personnel, Dr Shakuntala Mishra National Rehabilitation University (DSMNRU) in Lucknow has announced a groundbreaking partnership with the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. This collaboration focuses specifically on assisting retiring service members and soldiers who have been disabled during war or other operational circumstances.
Memorandum of Understanding and Training Initiatives
The university is preparing to sign a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Indian Army in the coming weeks. Under this agreement, DSMNRU will implement several key initiatives:
- Development and delivery of specialized short-term courses addressing disability management
- Comprehensive training programs focused on sensitization and rehabilitation techniques
- A dedicated six-month certificate course designed exclusively for military personnel
- Regular workshops covering various disability-related topics and rehabilitation methodologies
High-Level Discussions and Program Development
Officials from the Directorate General of Rehabilitation, Central Zone visited the university campus recently to formalize this partnership. The delegation, led by Colonel Prashant Mishra and Additional Director General Alok Awasthi, engaged in detailed discussions with DSMNRU's administrative leadership.
The university team, including Registrar Rohit Singh, Controller of Examinations Amit Kumar Rai, and Hindi Department Head Professor Yashwant Virodai, collaborated with military representatives to develop comprehensive rehabilitation support systems, course structures, and specialized training programs tailored for service personnel.
Artificial Limb Manufacturing and Free Distribution
One of the most significant aspects of this partnership involves the university's Artificial Limb and Rehabilitation Centre. Professor Virodai confirmed that this facility will manufacture high-quality artificial limbs specifically for soldiers who have lost limbs during service.
"These artificial limbs will be provided completely free of cost to eligible military personnel," Virodai emphasized, highlighting the university's commitment to supporting those who have sacrificed for national security.
Campus Tour and Workshop Participation
During their visit, the military officials participated in an ongoing workshop at the Artificial Limb and Rehabilitation Centre, which continues through January 28. They thoroughly reviewed the limb manufacturing processes and quality control measures.
The delegation also toured several specialized facilities on campus, including:
- The College of the Deaf, showcasing inclusive education infrastructure
- The Special Stadium designed for differently-abled individuals
- The Braille Library section within the Swami Vivekananda Central Library
- The technologically advanced Louis Braille Computer Lab
University Leadership's Perspective
Vice-Chancellor Acharya Sanjay Singh expressed profound commitment to this initiative, stating, "The rehabilitation of soldiers who have served our nation with distinction represents both our social responsibility and national duty. This collaboration with the armed forces will establish new benchmarks in rehabilitation services, skill development programs, and fostering self-reliance among our military veterans."
This partnership represents a pioneering model of academic-military cooperation in India, combining DSMNRU's rehabilitation expertise with the practical needs of armed forces personnel transitioning to civilian life or coping with service-related disabilities.
