20th Divya Kala Mela Inaugurated in Pune to Empower Divyangjan Entrepreneurs
The 20th edition of the Divya Kala Mela, a national fair dedicated to Divyangjan (people with disabilities), was inaugurated today in Pune. The fair, organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, is a major event for showcasing the talents and skills of Divyangjan. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Maharashtra Governor Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. Virendra Kumar, and MP Shri Rang Appa Barne.
Supporting Divyang Entrepreneurs with Financial Help
At this fair, the National Handicapped Finance and Development Corporation (NHFDC) announced the approval of loans worth ₹2 crore to Divyangjan. These loans aim to help them expand their businesses and become financially independent. In addition to the financial support, motorized tricycles were given to eligible participants, helping them with mobility.
Speaking at the event, Governor Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan expressed his admiration for the talent and determination of the Divyang community. He said, “It is important for our society to support and celebrate these gifted Divyang entrepreneurs and artists. They are playing a key role in building a stronger and more inclusive India.”
NHFDC’s Financial Schemes for Divyangjan
The Governor also spoke about NHFDC’s financial schemes, which provide loans ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹50 lakh at interest rates between 4% and 9% per year. These loans are designed to help Divyangjan start or grow income-generating activities. The loans are available through NHFDC’s state channelizing agencies, Punjab National Bank, and regional rural banks across the country.
Minister Highlights the Importance of the Divya Kala Mela
During the event, Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar emphasized the importance of the Divya Kala Mela as a platform for marketing the products made by Divyangjan. He stated that these fairs help promote the social and economic empowerment of Divyangjan by providing a stage for them to display their talents and entrepreneurial skills.
The Minister added, “So far, about 1,450 participants have taken part in Divya Kala Melas across the country, generating more than ₹11.5 crore in sales. Loans totaling over ₹10 crore have been given to support the growth of Divyang businesses.”
New Employment Opportunities for Divyangjan
The Minister also shared that employment fairs are now being held alongside the Divya Kala Mela to provide more job opportunities for Divyangjan. Of the 1,400 participants who have been screened so far, 370 have been shortlisted, and more than 100 have already received job offers. He added, “In the near future, Divyangjan will be working in well-known companies and organizations, further supporting their integration into the workforce.”
Divya Kala Mela Across India
The Pune edition of the Divya Kala Mela follows the successful organization of 19 such fairs across the country. These events aim to empower Divyangjan by giving them a platform to showcase their creativity and entrepreneurial abilities. The Divya Kala Mela is part of a larger plan to organize similar fairs in other major cities in the coming months.
Each fair gives priority to local Divyangjan. In this Pune event, Maharashtra’s own Divyang artisans and entrepreneurs are highlighted. The goal is to make Divyangjan self-reliant and economically empowered through their talents and skills.
A Platform for Talent and Business
At this year’s Divya Kala Mela, over 100 Divyang artisans, entrepreneurs, and artists from 18 states and union territories are displaying their products and crafts. Stalls have been provided free of cost, allowing Divyangjan to present their work at a large platform in a major city like Pune.
Visitors can purchase handmade goods from Divyang entrepreneurs and sample food from across India. In addition to shopping, visitors can enjoy cultural performances by Divyang artists each evening from 6 to 9 PM. These performances feature both local Pune artists and talent from across India.
Showcasing Talent Through Cultural Performances
The Divya Kala Mela will run until October 6, 2024, and is open to all visitors free of charge. On the final day, a special performance titled “Divya Kalashakti” will be presented by Divyang artists from across the country, showcasing their remarkable talents.
This year’s Mela features a total of 60 stalls, along with daily cultural performances by Divyang artists. These national fairs have become a way for Divyangjan to gain global recognition for their skills and abilities. An employment fair is also being held alongside the Mela, helping to create more opportunities for Divyangjan in the workforce.
Visually impaired artist Rajiv Ranjan served as the event’s anchor, and Shri Naveen Shah, Chairman and Managing Director of NHFDC, gave the vote of thanks.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.