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President Murmu's Pledge: Why Equality for Divyangjan Defines True Progress

President Droupadi Murmu handed out national awards to honor efforts in empowering persons with disabilities. She made a powerful statement that true societal development requires their full and equal participation. The President highlighted a shift from welfare to a rights-based approach, including the use of the respectful term 'Divyangjan'. She called for collective action from both government and society to ensure dignity and partnership in India's growth.

Key Points: President Murmu Presents National Awards for Disability Empowerment

  • President Murmu presented awards on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities
  • She stressed equality over charity for Divyangjan's societal participation
  • The government is strengthening inclusion via UDID cards and specialized institutions
  • This year's theme focuses on fostering disability-inclusive societies for progress
2 min read

President Murmu presents national awards for empowerment of persons with disabilities

President Droupadi Murmu presents national awards, advocating for equal participation and a rights-based approach for persons with disabilities on their international day.

"A society can truly be considered developed only when Divyangjan participate equally in all sectors. - President Droupadi Murmu"

New Delhi, Dec 3

President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday presented the National Awards for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities for the year 2025 on the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Addressing the gathering, the President said that persons with disabilities, or Divyangjan, deserve equality.

She further said that ensuring their equal participation in the development of society and the country is the responsibility of all stakeholders and should not be viewed as an act of charity.

"A society can truly be considered developed only when Divyangjan participate equally in all sectors," she added.

The President also highlighted this year’s theme -- “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress” -- describing it as a progressive and timely message.

She further expressed satisfaction that the country is increasingly adopting a rights-based and dignity-focused approach toward persons with disabilities, moving away from a purely welfare-based mindset.

She further added that the inclusion of Divyangjan is a vital part of India’s development journey.

"The use of the term 'Divyangjan', adopted in 2015, reflects the nation’s respect toward persons with disabilities," she added.

The President Murmu further said that the government is strengthening the ecosystem for inclusion and empowerment.

"Several national-level institutions have been established in areas such as sign language research, mental health rehabilitation, and sports training. Millions of Divyangjan have been issued Unique Disability ID cards, enabling easier access to government schemes and facilities," she added.

She emphasised that, along with the government, society also needs to remain aware and committed to supporting the rights and dignity of Divyangjan.

"Collective efforts will help accelerate progress. Every citizen must pledge to ensure dignity, independence, and equal opportunity for persons with disabilities and make them partners in the country’s growth," she noted.

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed annually on December 3, is a United Nations initiative aimed at promoting the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. The day also works to raise awareness and mobilise support for a more inclusive, accessible, and barrier-free society.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While the awards and speeches are good, the real test is on the ground. Are our public spaces, transport, and workplaces truly accessible? We need stricter enforcement of accessibility laws. The intent is right, but implementation is key.
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Arjun K
Jai Hind! It's heartening to see our first tribal woman President leading this important initiative. The shift in terminology to 'Divyangjan' (people with divine bodies) itself shows a more respectful mindset. Inclusion is indeed vital for Viksit Bharat.
S
Sarah B
As someone who has worked with disability NGOs in India, I appreciate the focus on sign language research and mental health rehab. These are often overlooked areas. Society's attitude change is the biggest hurdle, and awareness days like this help.
K
Karthik V
The sports training institutions mentioned are so important. We have seen Divyangjan athletes bring glory to India at Paralympics. Providing them training from the grassroots will unlock so much potential. A truly developed society includes everyone.
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Nisha Z
My cousin is a Divyangjan and the UDID card process was surprisingly smooth. It has helped him get a concession on railway tickets and apply for a scholarship. Small steps, but they make a big difference in daily life. Kudos to the efforts.

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