Purple Fest 2024
Today on 26 February, 2024 Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, and Government of India organized Purple Fest, at the Rashtrapati Bhavan exclusively for Persons with Disabilities in which Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya National Institute for Persons with Physical Disabilities was the nodal agency. More than 10 thousand Divyangjan, accompanied by their escorts at this majestic venue, fostering bonds of solidarity and mutual respect.
As the program begins, the stage comes alive with a kaleidoscope of cultural performances, each act a testament to the indomitable spirit of resilience and creativity. From the ethereal melodies of the Shining Star Band to the captivating performances of Satya & Sagarika, from the unity portrayed in “We Are One” to the patriotic fervor of “Patriotic on Wheels,” every performance was a celebration of diversity and unity.
Today gracing the occasion with her esteemed presence, The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, illuminated the event with her support and encouragement. The children with disabilities along with the Special Education Teacher of many schools visited Amrit Udyan today on special invitation by The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu. Amrit Udyan opened exclusively for our differently abled friends’ toady and it was indeed a great exposure for kids as well.
Today in the program, there were three major launches first, National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (NIEPID) under (Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), MSJ&E, Govt. of India) is collaborating and signing a MoU with TATA POWER COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TRUST (TPCDT) for “INDIA NEURODIVERSITY PLATFORM” an Aggregator Phygital Platform for Early Intervention & Home Care. This partnership aims to empower parents/caregivers, Anganwadi workers and teachers to be the primary therapists and provide early intervention to their children with different neuro developmental disabilities and refer them for the early interventions to professionals. Second, the launch of Handbook titled ‘Attitudinal barrier & usage of Disability Sensitive language’ that highlights how language/communication peopagates this attitudinal barrier. Hence the booklet suggests a framework for correct phraseology on disability that should be adopted by both public & pvt organisation. It also provides a non-exhaustive list of correct and incorrect terms and phrases of disability. And lastly American Indian Foundation and DEPwD will conduct 25 Job Fairs across country.
Today this extravaganza was not merely an event but a movement towards a more inclusive society. From interactive dance and singing performances to inclusive stalls showcasing talents and innovations, from cultural activities to exhilarating games and sports, every moment of the Purple Fest pulsates with the vibrancy of diversity.
Beyond the festivities, toady visitors and children with disabilities discovered the Rashtrapati Bhavan museum and enriched their minds while embracing the ethos of inclusivity. In every beat of the drum, in every note sung, in every smile exchanged, today the Purple Fest 2024 at Rashtrapati Bhavan was not just an event; it was a symphony of inclusivity, echoing the values of equality and dignity for all.
