International Wheelchair Day Sparks Sugamya Yatra in Delhi
On International Wheelchair Day 2025, the Sugamya Yatra was launched at Rajiv Chowk Metro Station in New Delhi, organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) and other key stakeholders. This initiative aims to challenge misconceptions about wheelchair users, enhance accessibility, and foster inclusivity within society. The event brought together various organizations and participants to promote a more accessible environment for all.
Collaborative Efforts for Inclusivity
The Sugamya Yatra received significant backing from multiple organizations, including the Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya National Institute for Persons with Physical Disabilities (PDDU-NIPPD), the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC), and the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). Students and faculty from institutions such as the School of Planning and Architecture, Vastu Kala Academy, Asha School, and Delhi University actively participated in the event. Their involvement underscored the importance of collaboration in promoting accessibility and inclusivity for persons with disabilities. Key activities during the Yatra included an Accessibility Walk, where participants experienced the challenges faced by wheelchair users. Additionally, a simulation exercise allowed non-disabled individuals to navigate in wheelchairs, providing them with firsthand insight into accessibility issues. A panel discussion featuring policymakers, social activists, and disability advocates further enriched the dialogue on inclusivity and disability rights, highlighting the need for systemic change.
Government Commitment to Accessibility
Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary of DEPwD, emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing accessibility during his address at the event. He noted that the Accessible India Campaign, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015, aims to make government buildings accessible to all. Despite progress, he acknowledged ongoing complaints about accessibility issues and announced the reactivation of the campaign nationwide, with the Sugamya Yatra marking its launch in New Delhi. Aggarwal urged media professionals and the public to contribute to creating an inclusive environment. He highlighted the importance of making digital content accessible, advocating for the use of ALT descriptions for images and transcriptions for videos on social media platforms. This call to action aims to ensure that information is available to everyone, regardless of their abilities.
Long-Term Vision for Sugamya Yatra
Ms. Manmeet Kaur Nanda, Joint Secretary of DEPwD, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to expanding the Sugamya Yatra initiative across the country. She stated that efforts would extend beyond government offices to include private organizations, fostering collaboration to enhance accessibility in workplaces and public spaces. This commitment reflects a broader vision of inclusivity for persons with disabilities. Dr. S. Govindaraj, Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, articulated the significance of the Sugamya Yatra as a journey toward inclusivity. He emphasized society’s responsibility to support marginalized groups, particularly persons with disabilities, ensuring they benefit from societal advancements. The launch of the Yatra on International Wheelchair Day is seen as a pivotal step in this ongoing journey.
Ms. Anjlee Agarwal, Executive Director of Samarthyam, highlighted the initiative’s long-term goals, stating that Sugamya Yatra will reach communities from rural areas to urban centers across India. This initiative serves as a crucial reminder to policymakers and architects to prioritize disability-friendly environments in their planning and designs. The Sugamya Yatra event sent a powerful message about the importance of removing mobility barriers, enabling persons with disabilities to achieve greater independence and economic empowerment. This initiative aims to pave the way for a truly inclusive society, where everyone can participate fully and equally.
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