JAMMU, Feb 14: Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar emphasized on Friday the unwavering commitment of the Central government towards the social and economic advancement of Divyangjans in India.
The remarks were made during the inauguration of the 11-day ‘Divya Kala Mela’ alongside Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at Gulshan Ground here.
The event, organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan) in partnership with the National Divyangjan Finance and Development Corporation (NDFDC), seeks to highlight the products, talents, and craftsmanship of Divyang entrepreneurs and artisans from all over the country.
“Under the insightful leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Divya Kala Melas, launched in 2022, have become a pivotal platform for Divyangjans to display their abilities, achieve economic independence, and contribute to the country’s progress,” Kumar stated.
He noted that Divya Kala Melas play a vital role in mitigating the issues faced by Divyangjans, especially those in remote regions, who often lack access to opportunities to showcase their skills. These initiatives not only empower individuals but also uplift entire families, resonating with the government’s vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’.
Highlighting the remarkable achievements of Indian athletes at the Tokyo and Paris Paralympics, the minister pointed out their impacts on both national and international stages, underscoring the government’s dedication to enhancing opportunities for Divyangjans to partake in national and international programs and effectively channeling their talents. He mentioned ongoing skill development and training programs across multiple sectors aimed at improving their economic prospects.
The government is firmly dedicated to the mission of uplifting Divyangjans socially and economically.
“Through organizing camps and festivals nationwide, we aim to foster an inclusive ecosystem where every individual can thrive,” he remarked.
In his address, the lieutenant governor expressed appreciation to the Central government, stating that the Mela embodies the Prime Minister’s commitment to empowering Divyangjans economically and fostering self-reliance.
Reaffirming his dedication to significantly improving the lives of Divyangjans, Sinha noted that the Union Territory of J&K is committed to creating a supportive environment that ensures equal opportunities and protects the rights of Divyangjans.
“My belief is rooted in recognizing God’s gift and extending goodness to others. I have made it a primary objective of our administration to take measures that facilitate the integration of Divyangjans into society,” Sinha added.
“In 2020, I introduced a comprehensive approach in administration to ensure Divyangjans can unlock their potential and engage actively in the development process,” he continued.
The lieutenant governor acknowledged the dedicated efforts of the Jammu and Kashmir administration in ensuring that assistive technologies are accessible to differently-abled individuals.
“I aim to ensure that every Divyangjan can access assistive equipment that empowers them and reduces the challenges posed by disabilities,” he stated, noting that aids such as hearing devices, wheelchairs, prosthetic limbs, and electric scooters are now available even in remote areas of the UT.
He also encouraged individuals and social service organizations to assist Divyangjans in obtaining appropriate devices tailored to their needs.
Additionally, he called upon innovators in Jammu and Kashmir to create more user-friendly aids and devices for Divyangjans utilizing modern technology. (Agencies)
