PM addresses Centennial Foundation Day of University of Lucknow

On the occasion of the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan’s anniversary, Dr. Virendra Kumar; Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment of India, spotlighted the central government’s unfaltering dedication to building an inclusive and accessible society for all. Reflecting on the progress achieved under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visionary leadership, Dr. Kumar emphasized the transformative impact of the initiative, marking another significant milestone in India's journey toward true inclusivity.

Dr. Virendra Kumar emphasized the remarkable strides achieved in creating a barrier-free and inclusive India. He spotlighted the flagship initiative promoting universal accessibility in public spaces, transportation, and digital platforms. “The Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan has been a game-changer in promoting universal accessibility in public spaces, transportation, and digital platforms. This initiative reflects the PM Modi government’s belief that true progress can only be achieved when every citizen, regardless of physical ability, is empowered to reach their full potential,” he remarked.

Dr. Kumar highlighted the transformative initiatives under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, emphasizing their profound impact on empowering differently-abled individuals. He noted how PM Modi redefined societal attitudes by encouraging the use of the term Divyang(divine-abled) instead of Viklang(disabled), promoting a more socially inclusive, respectful and dignified life for them. He also underscored the landmark Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016, which expanded the definition of disability from 7 to 21 categories, ensuring equal opportunities in education, employment, and social participation. Dr. Kumar commended the government's initiatives to support differently-abled individuals in various fields. He highlighted the remarkable accomplishments of India's para-athletes, who earned 19 medals at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics and an impressive 29 medals at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. These successes, he said, reflect the inclusive policies and solid support provided by the Modi government.

Turning his attention to recent developments in Karnataka, Dr. Kumar expressed grave concern over the government’s alarming decision to slash funding for differently-abled individuals by an unprecedented 80%. He emphasized that on one hand, while the central government is making all possible efforts to empower the Divyang community, Congress on the other, is once again showing its true colors by disregarding their needs and undermining their dignity.

“Congress has hit a new low, stooping to strip Divyangjans of their dignity and rights, all in the name of cheap vote-bank politics. They prioritize freebies over fundamental human respect,” he said.

Dr. Virendra Kumar stated, “The decision to reduce the budget for differently-abled individuals from ₹53 crore to a paltry ₹10 crore in the year 2024-25 is nothing short of a betrayal which is detrimental to the progress and empowerment of this vital section of society. At a time when the central government is accelerating efforts to build a barrier-free and inclusive India, such a move undermines these collective achievements.”

He added, “Karnataka is home to over 1.3 million differently-abled individuals. Reducing their allocated resources will severely impact their access to education, employment, and essential support services, putting their futures at stake.”

Dr. Kumar highlighted that the budget cut reflects a blatant disregard for marginalized communities, calling it a striking example of indifference. He emphasized Congress's long-standing pattern of prioritizing political interests over public welfare, describing this decision as a new low. The reduction, he stated, directly jeopardizes the lives of thousands of differently-abled individuals who depend on this funding for access to education, employment opportunities, and vital support services.

Dr. Kumar concluded by stating, “As we celebrate the 9th anniversary of the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan, I urge all state governments to align with the central government’s vision of accessibility and inclusivity. I specifically call on the Karnataka government to reconsider its decision and restore funding to support differently-abled individuals. Only then can we build a truly accessible and inclusive India.”