New Delhi, Delhi, 13th of December, 2025 : “Our Divyang brothers and sisters are not separate from us—they are our companions in society. No nation can truly progress by leaving anyone behind.” With these powerful words, Smt. Rekha Gupta, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Delhi, set a deeply moving and inclusive tone while addressing the Delhi edition of Divya Kala Mela 2025 at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, reaffirming that true national progress lies in collective upliftment.
Elaborating on her vision, the Chief Minister underscored that under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, initiatives such as the Accessible India Campaign, skill development programmes, scholarships, employment fairs and inclusive platforms like Divya Kala Mela are ensuring dignity, opportunity and equal participation for Divyangjan. She emphasized that real transformation demands courage and collective thinking, where society rises above individual interests and walks together for the welfare of all. Applauding the Ministry, the Hon’ble Union Minister and the officers for their sustained efforts, she expressed confidence that Divyangjan participating in the Delhi Mela would return empowered with greater self-belief, self-reliance and success.
Inaugurating the event, Dr. Virendra Kumar, Hon’ble Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, highlighted that the strength of a truly powerful nation is measured by its commitment to empower every citizen with dignity, equality and opportunity. He stated that the vision of “Saksham Bharat, Samarth Bharat” can be realised only when Divyangjan are recognised as equal partners in the nation’s progress, recalling the deep emotional and transformative connect Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has consistently shared with the Divyang community.
Reiterating the government’s resolve, the Union Minister said that guided by the mantra of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas aur Sabka Vishwas,” the Modi Government has, since 2014, provided assistive aids and devices to more than 32 lakh Divyangjan across the country. He emphasized that the Ministry continues to work across economic, social and educational dimensions to empower Divyangjan, whose role will be pivotal in building a developed India by 2047. Reflecting on the spirit of the event, he described Divya Kala Mela and Divya Kala Shakti as a celebration of “capability within disability,” offering a national platform for Divyang artists, entrepreneurs and performers to showcase their exceptional talent with confidence and pride.
Smt. V. Vidyavathi, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), highlighted that Divya Kala Mela has evolved into a nationwide catalyst for empowerment. She shared that since 2022, 27 Melas have generated over Rs. 20 crore in sales, supported nearly 1,000 Divyang entrepreneurs through loans exceeding Rs. 18 crore, and facilitated employment for 310 Persons with Disabilities through dedicated job fairs. She reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to building an enabling ecosystem of education, skilling, accessibility, assistive technology and livelihood opportunities that ensures dignity, independence and long-term empowerment for every Divyang citizen.
Welcoming the dignitaries and participants, Smt. Richa Shankar, DDG, described Divya Kala Mela as much more than an event, calling it a “festival of self-confidence, capability and creativity” of Divyangjan from across the country. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Divyang artists, entrepreneurs and partner organisations whose dedication and passion have transformed the Mela into a nationally recognised platform of inclusion and inspiration.
Since its inception in December 2022, the Divya Kala Mela has played a transformative role in promoting entrepreneurship, visibility and mainstream participation of Persons with Disabilities. Under the ADIP Scheme, more than 32 lakh Persons with Disabilities have received aids and assistive devices since 2014, while 934 Divyangjan have been supported through loans amounting to Rs. 18.05 crore to expand micro-enterprises and livelihood activities. Additionally, 310 Persons with Disabilities have secured employment through job fairs organised alongside the Melas.
The ongoing Divya Kala Mela 2025 at Kartavya Path stands as a vibrant tribute to the resilience, artistry and entrepreneurial spirit of Divyangjan. Alongside exhibitions of handicrafts, home décor, textiles and creative products, the Divya Kala Shakti segment continues to enthral audiences with inspiring musical, cultural and artistic performances by Divyang artists from across the nation. Echoing the spirit of “Vocal for Local,” the Mela calls upon citizens to support Divyang entrepreneurship and creativity. With the collective resolve of the government, community and citizens, this edition of Divya Kala Mela marks another meaningful step towards building a sensitive, empowered and inclusive India where every Divyang individual is recognised, respected and given equal opportunity to thrive.
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