Article:
The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), under the umbrella of Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, recently unveiled a comprehensive review of its yearly initiatives and accomplishments for the year 2023.
Historic Gatherings and Festivals for Inclusion
In an effort to foster inclusivity, DEPwD organized several notable events throughout the year. This included a special gathering at Rashtrapati Bhavan and the first-ever Festival of Inclusion (Purple Fest) in Goa. These events saw participation from thousands of Divyangjan and transgenders, setting world records and promoting a sense of belonging.
India-South Africa Cooperation in Disability Sector
The year 2023 also marked significant intergovernmental cooperation. The Union Cabinet signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of South Africa to promote mutual collaboration in the disability sector.
Divya Kala Mela
One of the significant events was the Divya Kala Mela 2023, which occurred across various Indian cities over the year. The event showcased the government’s commitment towards holistic development and empowerment of persons with disabilities.
Disabilities Awareness Days
Throughout 2023, the DEPwD embarked on a year-long celebration commemorating various disability awareness days. This ranged from World Braille Day on January 4 to the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3, 2023.
Recognition of Achievements
The accomplishments of individuals with disabilities were celebrated through felicitations. Notably, Abilympics winners, the Indian Deaf Cricket Team, and Para Swimmer Shri Satendra Singh Lohia had their contributions recognized.
Initiatives and Reforms
The government also introduced various transformative measures in 2023. These included integrating universal accessibility courses into architectural programs, releasing anonymous data through UDID (Unique Disability ID) portal, and creating portals for skill training and employment opportunities.
Empowering Through Entrepreneurship
Fostering entrepreneurship among persons with disabilities, the government collaborated with institutes to empower 3000 individuals via enterprise initiatives.
Technology and Accessible Resources
Several resources were deployed to make information accessible. The steps included launching an Indian Sign Language (ISL) dictionary, a Video Relay Service, and online courses in ISL.
Sports and High-Tech Training Centers
India’s first high-tech sports training center for Divyangjan was inaugurated in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. Named after former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the center promotes equal opportunities in sports.
Legal Support and Financial Inclusion
The DEPwD delivered impactful judgments in favor of persons with disabilities. These included announcing a 1% interest rate rebate to divyangjan borrowers under NDFDC Loan and promoting financial inclusion through loans.
Assistance to Disabled Persons Camp (ADIP) Scheme
The ADIP Scheme had notable achievements in providing financial aid. Grants-in-aid totaling Rs.368.05 crore benefitted approximately 2.91 lakh beneficiaries.
