The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, through its Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and in partnership with the National Handicapped Finance and Development Corporation (NHFDC), is organizing the “Divya Kala Mela” to celebrate the talents of disabled entrepreneurs, artisans, and artists. The event is taking place at the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from July 5 to July 11, 2024.
The Divya Kala Mela, along with the Divya Kala Shakti program, was inaugurated by Shri B.L. Verma, the Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment.
In his speech, Shri B.L. Verma emphasized, “Today, we are celebrating ‘Ability.’ Our participants in the ‘Divya Kala Mela’ are demonstrating their exceptional skills, talents, and entrepreneurship, breaking barriers. The performances in the Divya Kala Shakti program, including music, dance, and other expressions, not only entertain but also inspire us with their dedication and passion. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has always been emotionally connected with the divyangjan. His vision is to empower them, believing that the empowerment of all sections of society is crucial for the nation’s overall empowerment. Our government, under his leadership, has introduced numerous schemes benefiting Divyangjan.”
Shri Verma further added, “For the first time in Odisha, the revered land of Lord Jagannath, we are hosting both the Divya Kala Shakti and Employment Fair simultaneously at this magnificent Divya Kala Mela. It is our responsibility to recognize, appreciate, and honor these talented entrepreneurs and artists for inclusive development and creating an empowered society.”
Shri Kishor B. Surwade, Deputy Director General of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, highlighted, “Our goal is to build an inclusive society where differently-abled individuals in our country have equal opportunities for development. This includes their physical, social, educational, and economic empowerment, enabling them to lead productive, safe, and dignified lives.”
