25th National Divya Kala Mela Inaugurated in Udaipur

Udaipur: Governor Shri Haribhau Bagde emphasized that empowering persons with disabilities (Divyangjans) is as sacred as worshiping God, as they are the divine embodiment of the Almighty. He was speaking at the inauguration of the 25th National Divya Kala Mela, organized under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, and the National Handicapped Finance and Development Corporation (NHFDC) at the Town Hall premises in Udaipur. The event was chaired by Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri Ramdas Athawale. The event was graced by distinguished guests, including NHFDC CMD Shri Naveen Shah and Virendra Singh, Managing Director of Anuja Nigam.

Governor Shri Bagde stated that the term "Divya" signifies something extraordinary, and persons with disabilities possess special capabilities, which is why they are called Divyangjans. He acknowledged the continuous efforts of both central and state governments to uplift Divyangjans, which has led to increased opportunities for employment and encouragement. The National Divya Kala Mela is a prime example of this effort.

Union Minister Shri Athawale assured that the central government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, is committed to the welfare of Divyangjans. He highlighted that the ministry has a dedicated department for their upliftment and that NHFDC has been actively working to empower Divyangjans. He also mentioned that over 24 Divya Kala Melas have been held across the country, providing over 2,500 Divyangjans an opportunity to display their products, earning nearly ₹20 crores in the process.

Shri Athawale called on the residents of Udaipur to support the mela by purchasing the locally made products from the Divyangjan artisans. He emphasized that visiting this mela is like visiting a mall of Divyangjans.

The event commenced with the ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by the Governor and other dignitaries visiting the stalls set up by Divyangjan artisans and entrepreneurs from across the country, offering an array of products, including handicrafts, handlooms, embroidered goods, and packaged food.

**Loan and Equipment Distribution**
During the event, Governor Shri Bagde and Minister Shri Athawale distributed loan approval certificates to beneficiaries from Udaipur, Dungarpur, and Chittorgarh under various government schemes. They also distributed battery-operated cycles, tricycles, and other assistive devices to the beneficiaries.

The mela will be open daily from March 21 to 30, offering handicrafts, clothing, eco-friendly products, food, toys, gifts, and more. There will be cultural programs every evening, and on March 30, a special cultural event, "Divya Kala Shakti," will feature performances by Divyang artists from across the nation.

The Mela is open to the public from 11 AM to 9 PM daily, and entry is free.