The National Communications Academy–Finance (NCA-F) in Ghitorni marked Purple Fest 2025 with a vibrant celebration on December 3, bringing together trainees, faculty, and disability-rights advocates to honour the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The event, held in collaboration with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), reinforced the government’s commitment to accessibility, empathy, and inclusive public service training.
Leadership Calls for Breaking Social Barriers
The Fest was inaugurated by DEPwD Secretary Ms. V. Vidyavathi, who urged participants to confront and overcome mental barriers that often hinder social inclusion. She emphasised that accessibility is not only a physical requirement but also a mindset that must be cultivated across institutions and communities.
The Director General of NCA-F echoed this sentiment, calling on the audience to embrace compassion, understanding, and proactive inclusion in every sphere of public service. Senior officials from DEPwD, including the Deputy Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, added further depth to the discussions through their guidance and encouragement.
These leadership perspectives set the stage for a day dedicated to empathy-building, exposure to lived experiences of disability, and hands-on learning.
Officer Trainees Take Part in Immersive Learning
One of the highlights of Purple Fest 2025 was the enthusiastic participation of 176 Officer Trainees from 15 All India and Central Civil Services. These trainees, currently undergoing a Special Foundation Course at NCA-F with LBSNAA Mussoorie, engaged deeply with the day’s programmes. Their involvement signalled a broader shift towards embedding inclusivity within the core training of India’s future administrators.
An inspiring address by IAS officer Ms. Ira Singhal a strong advocate for disability rights left a lasting impact on trainees. Her reflections on lived experiences and systemic challenges offered a compelling call for change from within the administrative structure.
The schedule also included simulation exercises conducted by NGOs, enabling trainees to experience first-hand the barriers faced by persons with disabilities. These activities aimed to transform theoretical understanding into empathetic, actionable insight.
Training of Trainers and Awareness Sessions Boost Capacity
A dedicated Training of Trainers (ToT) session led by the Deputy Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities offered NCA-F faculty members practical knowledge on accessibility practices, legal frameworks, and inclusive methodologies. The session contributed to strengthening institutional capacity for long-term sensitisation and curriculum integration.
Alongside classroom sessions, the academy hosted a series of simulation-based awareness modules. Participants experienced mobility challenges, communication barriers, and environmental obstacles, helping them understand the urgency of accessible policy design and implementation.
Divyangjan Entrepreneurs Shine Through Exhibitions
A colourful exhibition area featuring stalls by Divyangjan entrepreneurs drew significant attention from trainees, visitors, and staff. Children, young adults, and artisans showcased handmade products, innovative crafts, and assistive tools, receiving strong encouragement and engagement from attendees.
The exhibition not only provided visibility to talented creators but also highlighted the economic dimension of empowerment illustrating how support, exposure, and accessibility can transform livelihoods for persons with disabilities.
The lively stalls contributed to the Fest’s broader goal of celebrating resilience, talent, and aspiration.
A Celebration of Inclusion, Empathy, and Collective Responsibility
Purple Fest 2025 at NCA-F stood as a reminder that inclusion is a shared responsibility. Through leadership insights, hands-on activities, and interactive exhibitions, the event promoted a deeper understanding of disability rights and accessibility frameworks. It also reinforced the role of future administrators in building systems that are not only compliant but also compassionate.
