Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today participated in the Purple Fest 2025 at Raj Bhawan, an event dedicated to fostering awareness, inclusion, and empowerment for Divyangjan (persons with disabilities).
Commitment to Inclusion and Empowerment
In his address, LG Sinha praised the resilience and talent of Divyangjan and reaffirmed his commitment to making Jammu & Kashmir more accessible and inclusive.
“We have worked with dedication for the empowerment of Divyangjan. Over the past few years, major initiatives have been undertaken to ensure their dignity, rights, and well-being. I am fully committed to their integration into social, economic, and cultural life,” he stated.
Government Initiatives for Divyangjan
The LG outlined several key measures taken by the government to create a supportive and enabling environment for Divyangjan. He emphasized the importance of equal opportunities and highlighted the reforms introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure that both public and private establishments follow policies addressing the challenges faced by Divyangjan.
“Divyangjan have immense potential to achieve extraordinary success. They are gifted individuals who bring positive change to society. They are not seeking welfare but rather their constitutional rights,” he added.
Education & Skill Development for Divyangjan
Emphasizing the crucial role of education, the LG urged civil society organizations and stakeholders to support the education of Divyangjan in an inclusive setting.
“Education is the most powerful tool for employment and progress. Additionally, skilling is essential to help them achieve self-reliance. A multi-faceted skilling approach and collaborative efforts will ensure that Divyangjan can fully realize their potential,” he said.
The LG also commended Para-Archers Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar, recognizing their inspiring journeys and determination as a source of motivation for all.
Call for 100% Unique ID Card Saturation
Stressing the need for better identification of beneficiaries, LG Sinha directed officials from the Social Welfare Department to ensure 100% saturation of Unique ID Cards for Divyangjan.
“The J&K Government has already requested the Government of India to organize two mega camps for Divyangjan—one each in Jammu and Kashmir Division,” he announced.
Cultural Performances & Felicitations
The event featured cultural performances and martial arts demonstrations by children from Composite Regional Centre Jammu, Directorate of Social Welfare, and other organizations. The Lieutenant Governor was also presented with the Mata Ki Chunni of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi along with handmade flower pots and bouquets.
During the occasion, the LG felicitated officials and representatives from various organizations, including:
- Composite Regional Centre Jammu
- Jigar Foundation
- Muskan Charitable Trust & Muskan Foundation Vijaypur
- Swami Vivekanand 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
- Residential School for the Blinds, Roopnagar Jammu
A pledge to safeguard the rights and interests of Divyangjan was also administered.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The event was attended by prominent officials, including:
- Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary
- Sanjeev Verma, Commissioner Secretary, Social Welfare
- Rupesh Kumar, Director, Social Welfare Jammu
- Iqbal Lone, Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities
- Senior officials, Divyangjan, representatives of various NGOs, and civil society members
