The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, in collaboration with the National Divyangjan Finance and Development Corporation (NDFDC), is set to host a remarkable event that celebrates the talents and craftsmanship of Divyang entrepreneurs and artisans from across the nation. The Divya Kala Mela & Divya Kala Shakti will be held from 5^th to 11^th of July 2024 at the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) Campus in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

The event will be inaugurated on 5^th July 2024 at 1:00 PM by the Minister of State, MSJ&E, Govt. of India, Shri B L Verma. Prominent NGOs working for Divyangjan from six States including Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand, and Odisha, along with other dignitaries, will grace the inauguration.

The iconic cultural program “Divya Kala Shakti” will feature performances by Divyangjan artists from the six States mentioned above. Held at the KIIT University Auditorium, "Divya Kala Shakti" highlights the talents and capabilities of Divyangjan, promoting their inclusion in society through art and culture.

The fair “Divya Kala Mela” will showcase vibrant products crafted by over 190 Divyang artisans, artists, and entrepreneurs. Visitors can explore a wide range of categories including home décor and lifestyle, clothing, stationery, eco-friendly products, packaged food, organic products, toys, gifts, personal accessories like jewelry & clutch bags, paintings, etc.

This event encourages the "Vocal for Local" initiative, allowing visitors to purchase unique items made with immense determination by Divyang artisans.

The 6-day event will run from 9:00 AM to 9:30 PM from 5^th to 11^th July in Campus–6. It will feature a series of cultural activities, including performances by Divyangjan artists and well-known professionals. Additionally, visitors can savor a variety of regional cuisines at the event.

Separate assessment camps will be organized by Swami Vivekanand National Institute of Rehabilitation Training and Research (SVNIRTAR), Odisha, in collaboration with Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO), to assist persons with disabilities needing aids and appliances.

The Divya Kala Mela and Divya Kala Shakti, alongside the Divyangjan Rozgar Mela, represent a significant step towards building an inclusive society that celebrates and empowers Divyangjan. This event, meticulously planned and organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, aims to promote the concept of Sashaktikaran of Divyangjan across the country.

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SS/MG