New Delhi: Divya Kala Mela highlighted the economic potential of Divyangjan, as Uttarakhand Governor Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh said they would help drive India’s rise as the world’s third-largest economy.
The Governor inaugurated the 30th Divya Kala Mela at Rangers Ground in Dehradun. He described the event as a platform of inspiration and self-reliance. Moreover, he said the creativity on display reflected the spirit of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. He urged that products from the Mela reach global markets.
He also stressed that artificial intelligence and new technologies can open equal opportunities for persons with disabilities. According to him, technology does not discriminate and can bridge long-standing gaps.
Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment B. L. Verma said the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 strengthened inclusion. In addition, he announced that ₹375 crore was allocated in the current budget through the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India to provide assistive devices.
Divya Kala Mela expands jobs and enterprise support
Tehri MP Mala Rajya Laxmi Shah called Divya Kala Mela a catalyst for social change. She praised the Centre for bringing national recognition to such initiatives in Uttarakhand. Meanwhile, MLA Khajan Das said the platform builds dignity and confidence among Divyangjan.
Pradeep A., Director of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, said the Mela connects entrepreneurs with markets and finance. He added that organisers are conducting assistive device registrations, awareness stalls and job fairs to boost empowerment.
So far, 29 editions have involved about 2,362 participants and generated business worth over ₹23 crore. Authorities have sanctioned loans exceeding ₹20 crore to promote entrepreneurship. Additionally, employment fairs saw 3,131 candidates participate. Of them, 1,007 were shortlisted and more than 313 received job offers.
The nine-day Dehradun event features around 90 stalls with over 100 Divyang artisans from 16 States and UTs. A job fair will take place on February 26. Furthermore, the “Divya Kala Shakti” cultural programme is scheduled for March 1. Organisers have kept entry free from February 21 to March 1, between 11:00 AM and 9:00 PM daily.
