The 29th edition of Divya Kala Mela was inaugurated today at the Exhibition Ground, Chandigarh, by Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. Virendra Kumar, who described the event as “a celebration of dignity, self-reliance and empowerment” rather than merely an exhibition.
Calling it a transformative movement for Divyangjan across the country, Dr. Virendra Kumar said the Mela reflects the Government’s sustained commitment to inclusive growth and equal opportunity. He noted that since 2014, the shift from insensitive terminology to the respectful term “Divyang” under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi marked not only a linguistic change but a change in vision.
Referring to key reforms, he highlighted the enactment of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, the expansion of recognised disability categories and the implementation of the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan as milestones that have strengthened accessibility, dignity and participation. He emphasised that true respect must translate into economic strength and self-reliance, adding that Divya Kala Mela embodies this philosophy by connecting Divyang artisans and entrepreneurs directly with markets across India.
Member of Parliament Shri Satnam Singh Sandhu said that according respect to Divyangjan in line with India’s cultural values is a historic step, but empowerment must accompany respect. He underlined that dignity remains incomplete without livelihood and self-reliance, and appreciated the Ministry for creating platforms like Divya Kala Mela that enable Divyang youth, particularly those unable to travel far, to market their products closer to home.
Mayor of Chandigarh Shri Saurabh Joshi described the occasion as a celebration of talent, confidence and human potential. He said that hosting Divya Kala Mela, Divya Kala Shakti and the Rozgar Mela reflects Chandigarh’s commitment to inclusion and reinforces the belief that disability is not a limitation but a distinct ability that enriches society.
In his welcome address, Joint Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Shri Rajiv Sharma highlighted the measurable economic impact of the initiative. Over the past three years, Divya Kala Melas organised across various cities have recorded business transactions worth ₹2366.43 lakh. So far, 28 editions across the country have seen participation of around 2,362 Divyang entrepreneurs, collectively generating income of over ₹23 crore.
He further stated that loans exceeding ₹20 crore have been sanctioned to support Divyang entrepreneurship. Parallel Rozgar Melas have drawn participation from 3,131 candidates, of whom 1,007 were shortlisted and more than 313 have already received job offers, demonstrating the employment dimension of the initiative.
The 29th Divya Kala Mela is being held in the presence of several dignitaries including Smt Anuradha S. Chagti, Secretary, Social Welfare and Women and Child Welfare Department, Chandigarh; Shri Vineet Rana, Chief General Manager, NDFDC; Shri M. K. Sahoo, Assistant General Manager, NDFDC; and other senior officials.
The Chandigarh edition features around 75 stalls showcasing products by Divyang entrepreneurs, Government of India institutions and non-governmental organisations. Visitors can register for assistive devices at the ALIMCO stall, while multiple institutions are presenting innovations and initiatives aimed at empowerment.
A dedicated Rozgar Mela for Divyangjan is scheduled for 19 February 2026 to connect candidates with reputed organisations and companies. Inclusive sports events such as Boccia and Blind Cricket, along with daily cultural performances by Divyang artists, are adding vibrancy to the programme. A special cultural presentation titled Divya Kala Shakti will be held on 21 February 2026, celebrating the artistic excellence of Divyang performers.
The event underscores the Government’s broader objective of advancing economic inclusion and reinforcing the dignity, capability and entrepreneurial potential of Divyang citizens.
