Indraj was speaking at a programme held on Friday to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, where 356 high-quality assistive devices were distributed to 208 Divyang beneficiaries.
File Photo: IANS
Delhi’s Social Welfare Minister Ravinder Indraj on Friday said that the state government is working to make Divyang citizens self-reliant and empowered, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision that they will play a significant role in achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Indraj was speaking at a programme held on Friday to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, where 356 high-quality assistive devices were distributed to 208 Divyang beneficiaries.
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Divyang talents and para-athletes who excelled in education and various other fields were also felicitated on the occasion. Among them were Anu Kumari — blind Indian woman cricketer and Delhi University student — who performed exceptionally in the Blind Women’s T-20 World Cup; Pooja Chhoti (Snowshoeing Gold Medalist at the Special Olympics Winter Games in Italy); Kalyani (for her outstanding performance in the Volleyball World Cup at the Special Olympics in Poland); and Priyanka (Gold Medalist in Bocce and Bowling at the Asia-Pacific Games).
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The minister said that Divyang individuals are simple, gentle and akin to divine beings, adding that society must show sensitivity, respect and cooperation towards them.
He shared that over the last nine months, he had the opportunity to celebrate major festivals like Holi and Diwali with Divyang and elderly residents, which helped him understand them better and fostered a sense of belonging.
Indraj also said that the state government has instructed all concerned departments, hospitals and medical boards to expedite the issuance of UDID cards so that those who require them can receive timely assistance.
The minister added that through the “Accessible India Campaign” and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, the lives of Divyang citizens are being made more dignified and empowered.
He said India is currently counted among the world’s most progressive countries in the field of disability rights.
The minister further stated that the Prime Minister’s vision is to enhance Divyang participation in the nation’s development in the 21st century, and the Delhi government is making consistent efforts in this direction.
He reaffirmed that the government’s doors are always open for suggestions and remains committed to implementing recommendations received from Divyang citizens.
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