In a resounding affirmation of inclusion, Union Minister of State BL Verma stated on Sunday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has laid a solid foundation through welfare programs to bring persons with disabilities into the societal mainstream.
At the launch of the landmark 30th Divya Kala Mela in Dehradun’s Rangers Ground, Verma detailed financial commitments. The budget allocates Rs 375 crore via ALIMCO for assistive aids, set to empower thousands of differently-abled citizens with essential mobility and daily living support.
DEPwD Director Pradeep A. described the mela as a holistic platform linking disabled business owners to markets, funding, and employment. On-site activities include device registrations, awareness booths, and recruitment drives, all designed to amplify empowerment.
Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh spotlighted AI and tech innovations as game-changers for disability inclusion. ‘Technology levels the playing field without bias,’ he said, urging global promotion of mela products by disabled artisans to earn worldwide acclaim.
The Governor lauded the resolve of persons with disabilities, positioning the Divya Kala Mela as an inspirational hub that underscores their role in national economic progress.
MP Mala Rajya Lakshmi Shah elevated the event’s stature, calling it a driver of societal transformation. She praised central government initiatives for nationalizing the mela and hosting it in Uttarakhand, while citing Paralympic successes as evidence of potential unleashed by support.
Local MLA Khajan Das praised the fair for instilling dignity and prospects, vital for building confidence and integration.
This edition builds on the success of 29 prior melas nationwide, where 2,362 entrepreneurs traded over Rs 23 crore. Government loans surpassing Rs 20 crore, alongside job fairs placing over 1,000 candidates, demonstrate unwavering dedication to economic upliftment for the differently-abled.