Murmu calls for greater ease of living for Divyangs

President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday called for a more inclusive society that provided equal opportunities and facilities to the differently abled or Divyangs.

Addressing an event at Vigyan Bhawan here to mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the President said a society could be considered sensitive only when it ensured equal rights to Divyangs. “The parameters for ease of living will be considered meaningful only when the ease of living increases for Divyangs too,” she said.

Murmu called for collaboration across various ministries to ensure the economic and social empowerment of the differently abled, particularly those living in rural and remote areas.

Highlighting the importance of economic opportunities, the President suggested promoting entrepreneurship, skill development and employment for Divyangs. She recommended creating avenues to give preference in purchasing products made by Divyangs, as well as providing marketing facilities to boost their leadership potential.

The President presented national awards to 22 individuals and 11 institutions for their efforts in empowering the differently abled.

Among the awardees was 13-year-old Prathamesh Sinha from Pune, who was recognised in ‘Shreshth Divyang Bal/Balika’ category. Visually impaired, Prathamesh is a motivational speaker and an advocate for children with visual impairment and cancer patients. He has actively promoted Braille literacy, using the ANNIE device, and his work was featured on Shark Tank India and presented to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Also honoured was Kumari Janvi, a 13-year-old from Hisar, who has overcome total hearing impairment to excel in various fields. Janvi has won multiple awards in essay writing, chess, painting and drama at both national and state levels.