In a grand ceremony at D.B Ground in Panaji, Goa, the International Purple Festival kicked off on 08 January 2024, heralding six days of celebration and empowerment for Persons with Disabilities. The festival, a collaborative effort between the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, the Directorate of Social Welfare under the Government of Goa, and the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities from the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, was inaugurated by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant and Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri. Ramdas Athawale.Secretary DEPwD emphasized that festivals of this nature have the potential to catalyze a profound shift in societal perspectives, fostering a positive impact on mindset and attitudes.

Key Highlights

1. Leadership Presence Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant expressed pride in Goa's unique initiatives for the disabled community, citing praise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He emphasized inclusivity, lauding the diverse talents of Persons with Disabilities.

2. Disability Information Line (DIL): A milestone was achieved with the launch of India’s first cloud-based IVRS for Disability Information Line (DIL). The 24x7 service offers information on 21 disabilities, accessible through the toll-free number 1800222014.

3. Purple Fest Playbook: The launch of the Purple Fest Playbook provided an overview of the event's achievements and outlined actions for accessibility before, during, and after the festival.

4. Purple Anthem 'Dhumal'The Opening Ceremony featured the Purple Anthem, 'Dhumal,' showcasing performances by Persons with Disabilities and renowned creators from the Indian Music Industry, symbolizing unity and inclusivity.

5. PURPLE TV BHARAT: A dedicated channel, PURPLE TV BHARAT, was introduced to showcase ideas, success stories, interviews, and achievements of the Person with Disability Community globally.

6. Purple Rain Finale: The festival concluded with the Purple Rain, featuring diverse performances, including the international Mando by children from the National Association for the Blind, traditional Goan folk dance Mussal, classical dance 'Saraswati Vandana,' and an engaging performance by Hema Sardesaai.

Day 1 Highlights:

-Deaf blindness Conclave: The day began with the Deaf blindness Conclave at Gasper Dias, addressing crucial topics like mental health, communication rights, and empowerment.

Inclusivity Panel Discussion: At Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industries, a panel discussed 'Championing Inclusivity,' focusing on experiences in employing persons with disabilities and fostering inclusivity in the workforce.

-Purple Exhibition: Transforming into a vibrant marketplace of diversity, the Purple Exhibition showcased India's cultural richness through the NDFDC's Divya Kala Mela.

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MG/MS/VL/SD