Divya Kala Mela at the Exhibition inagurates at Chandigarh

29th edition of Divya Kala Mela at the Exhibition Ground, Chandigarh, today inagurated by Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar. He described the Mela as a transformative movement that has emerged as a new ray of hope in the lives of Divyangjan across the country, reflecting the Government’s unwavering commitment to inclusive growth and equal opportunity.

Satnam Singh Sandhu, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), in his address, remarked that according respect to Divyangjan in line with India’s cultural values is a historic step. However, he underlined that empowerment must accompany respect. “Without livelihood and self-reliance, dignity remains incomplete,” he said, appreciating the Ministry for creating platforms like Divya Kala Mela that enable Divyang youth, especially those unable to travel far, to showcase and market their products closer to home.

Saurabh Joshi, Mayor of Chandigarh, 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 in Chandigarh reflects the city’s commitment to inclusion, reinforcing the belief that disability is not a limitation but a distinct ability that enriches society.

In his welcome address, Shri Rajiv Sharma, Joint Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), highlighted the tangible economic impact of the initiative.

The 29th Divya Kala Mela is being organized at the Exhibition Ground, Chandigarh, in the gracious presence of distinguished dignitaries including Smt Anuradha S. Chagti, Secretary, Social Welfare & Women and Child Welfare Department, Chandigarh; Vineet Rana, Chief General Manager, NDFDC; Shri M. K. Sahoo, Assistant General Manager, NDFDC; and other senior officials. So far, Divya Kala Melas have been organized at 28 locations across the country with the participation of around 2,362 Divyang entrepreneurs, collectively generating income of over ₹23 crore — a remarkable milestone in inclusive entrepreneurship.(UPDATED ON 14TH FEB 26)