The Mahatma Gandhi University community bestows warm felicitations to Dr. P.T. Baburaj, Director of the Inter-University Centre for Disability Studies (IUCDS), on his recent appointment as the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (SCPWD).

“This appointment is a well-deserved recognition of Dr. Baburaj’s dedicated service as a teacher, researcher, and subject expert, who has made significant contributions to the empowerment of persons with disabilities”, Vice Chancellor Dr. C.T. Aravindakumar remarked. His extensive experience and profound expertise will undoubtedly play a crucial role in fulfilling his new responsibilities with excellence. The entire University community shares in the joy of this achievement,” the Vice Chancellor added.

The Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities is tasked with overseeing the implementation of the Persons with Disabilities Act within the state. As a semi-judicial body, the Commissionerate holds the authority to exercise the powers of a Civil Court under Section 63 of the Act, facilitating the resolution of grievances for individuals with disabilities.

A native of Gandhinagar, Kottayam, Dr. Baburaj boasts an impressive academic background, including an MSc in Psychology, MEd, MA in Social Work, and a PhD in Special Education. He is the former Director and current Dean of the School of Behavioural Sciences at Mahatma Gandhi University. Currently, he also serves as a member of the State Advisory Board on Disability, the State Disability Policy Formulation Committee, the Ethical Committee, and the Expert Committee of NIPMR, as well as the MGU Academic Council. In 2022, Dr. Baburaj was honoured with the State Government’s award for his outstanding contributions to the field of disability.

Dr. Baburaj’s efforts in promoting disability empowerment have been both profound and transformative. His career reflects not only professional success but also a relentless commitment to uplifting individuals with disabilities. He has developed a deep understanding of the multifaceted challenges faced by such individuals and has authored numerous papers and articles addressing these issues.