New Initiative Empowers Persons with Disabilities in India
In a significant step towards fostering an inclusive society, Dr. Virendra Kumar, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, emphasized the importance of recognizing individuals by their abilities rather than their disabilities. Speaking at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Rajyoga Education Research Foundation, he called for a shift from a welfare-centric approach to one that acknowledges and nurtures the potential of persons with disabilities. The ceremony was held at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi, marking the launch of the “Divyang Samanata, Sanrakshan evam Sashaktikaran Abhiyan (DISSSA).”
Dr. Kumar articulated that the empowerment of persons with disabilities cannot be achieved solely by government efforts. He highlighted the critical role of society and encouraged the involvement of various sectors including social, spiritual, and educational institutions. Through beneficial partnerships, he proposed that government initiatives could effectively reach those most in need. He pointed out that the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, must translate into tangible benefits for all eligible individuals.
Shri B.L. Verma, Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, echoed these sentiments, declaring that safeguarding the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities is a shared responsibility among various stakeholders including the government, local administrations, and families. He stressed the necessity of recognizing the talents and potential of these individuals, providing them with the opportunities required for realizing their aspirations.
The Rajyoga Education Research Foundation’s Rajyogini BK Asha didi remarked on the organization’s longstanding commitment of over 18 years towards empowering persons with disabilities, particularly the youth. The organization has developed specialized programs and materials, utilizing dedicated mobile vans to reach educational institutions, further enriching the training and development of these individuals.
Shri Rajeev Sharma, Joint Secretary of DEPwD, introduced the DISSSA initiative as a pivotal opportunity to augment existing government efforts through the diverse outreach and experience of the partnering organizations. He mentioned that the program aims to provide educational and rehabilitation services to children with disabilities through various nationwide projects.
The DISSSA initiative is designed to create an enabling environment for persons with disabilities, addressing not only their physical needs but also their mental and emotional well-being. Activities will range from community engagement to health-awareness campaigns, all focused on fostering equality and empowerment.
This campaign aims to ensure that individuals with disabilities are actively included in society as empowered contributors rather than just beneficiaries. With services translated into regional languages, DISSSA plans to reach individuals across multiple states, promoting dignity, confidence, and equal opportunity in national life.
The launch event witnessed the participation of notable figures, including members from the Brahma Kumaris and various officials from the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, showcasing a united front dedicated to advancing these critical initiatives.
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