PM’s reforms ensuring equal opportunity for Divyangjan: LG

Jammu, Mar 21: Reaffirming his dedication to building a more accessible and inclusive Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha lauded the resilience and talents of Divyangjan (persons with disabilities) at the Purple Fest 2025 held today at Raj Bhawan. The event, dedicated to fostering awareness, inclusion, and empowerment, highlighted the ongoing efforts to uplift and support Divyangjan in the region.
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor emphasised the government’s commitment to creating an environment that nurtures the innate potential of Divyangjan, enabling them to lead dignified, independent lives. He also stressed the importance of providing equal opportunities for Divyangjan, referencing reforms initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure that both public and private establishments adhere to policies promoting equal opportunities and systematically address the challenges faced by Divyangjan.
“We have worked diligently to empower Divyangjan, and in recent years, significant initiatives have been undertaken to secure their dignity, rights, and well-being,” said LG Sinha. “I am fully committed to integrating Divyangjan in every aspect of social, economic, and cultural life.”
The Lieutenant Governor underscored the vast potential of Divyangjan, noting, “They are gifted individuals who are dedicated to bringing positive change to society. They are not asking for welfare, but for their constitutional rights.” He also expressed his long-standing focus on policies that prepare Divyangjan for full integration into the mainstream.
Highlighting the importance of education, LG Sinha urged all stakeholders, including civil society organisations, to support the completion of Divyangjan’s education in an inclusive environment. “Education is essential for Divyangjan because it is the key to employment and personal advancement,” he noted.
The Lieutenant Governor also placed significant emphasis on skilling programs, stating that a multi-faceted, collaborative approach is crucial for empowering Divyangjan, helping them become self-reliant and reach their full potential.
In a special mention, LG Sinha recognized the achievements of Para-Archers Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar, whose remarkable journeys of determination have become an inspiration to many.
The Lieutenant Governor further called on officials from the Social Welfare Department and other stakeholders to intensify efforts in identifying beneficiaries and ensuring 100% saturation of Unique ID Cards for Divyangjan. He also announced that the Jammu and Kashmir government has requested the Government of India to organize two mega camps—one in each division of Jammu and Kashmir—for Divyangjan.
The event featured cultural performances and martial arts demonstrations by children from the Composite Regional Centre Jammu, Directorate of Social Welfare, and other organisations. These children also presented the Lieutenant Governor with the Mata ki Chunni of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, as well as handmade flower pots and bouquets.
During the event, the Lieutenant Governor also felicitated officials and members of several organizations, including Composite Regional Centre Jammu, Jigar Foundation, Muskan Charitable Trust, Muskan Foundation Vijaypur, Swami Vivekananda Educational Trust, Directorate of Social Welfare, Office of the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (PWD), J&K Samaj Kalyan Kendra Jammu, Voluntary Medicare Society Srinagar, and the Residential School for the Blind Roopnagar Jammu.
A pledge to safeguard the rights and interests of Divyangjan was also administered during the occasion.
Present at the event were Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Commissioner Secretary Social Welfare Sanjeev Verma, Director Social Welfare Jammu Rupesh Kumar, Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Iqbal Lone, senior government officials, Divyangjan, and representatives from various NGOs and civil society groups.