17th Divya Kala Mela: Empowering Divyang Artists in Raipur

Inauguration and Overview of the 17th Divya Kala Mela

• Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar inaugurated the 17th Divya Kala Mela in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, on August 17, 2024.
• Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai was present at the inauguration.
• The week-long event runs from August 16 to August 23, 2024.
• Organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India.
• The Mela features over 100 Divyang artisans, artists, and entrepreneurs from about 20 states and union territories.
• Participants showcase a diverse range of products including home decor, lifestyle items, clothing, eco-friendly products, and packaged foods.
• Cultural programs are included, allowing participants to display talents in music, dance, and drama.

Purpose and History of Divya Kala Mela

• Started in 2022 by the Government of India to economically empower disabled (Divyang) artists.
• Aims to provide market access for products created by Divyang artists and entrepreneurs.
• Focuses on skill development and promotion of inclusivity.
• The Raipur event is the 17th in the series of Divya Kala Melas organized across various Indian cities.
• Celebrates the talents of people with disabilities and promotes their integration into mainstream society.
• Raises awareness about accessible art and fosters interaction between the disabled community and the public.
• Provides exposure and livelihood opportunities for participants through handicraft stalls, food, and cultural programs.

Economic Empowerment Initiatives

• 'Divya Kala Shakti' Job Fairs are being organized as part of the event.
• A Loan Mela is included to help Divyangjan access affordable loans for business expansion.
• The initiative aligns with PM Narendra Modi's vision of a self-reliant India.
• Dr. Kumar emphasized the abundance of talent among the disabled community, stressing the need for encouragement and opportunities.
• Central government schemes for social and economic empowerment of the disabled were highlighted.

New Developments and Future Plans

Announcement of a dedicated Divyangjan park in Raipur:

• Proposed by Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar
• Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai agreed to allocate 5 acres of land for the project
• The park aims to enhance inclusivity in the state capital

Expansion of educational opportunities for the differently-abled:

• Plans to introduce diploma, graduation, and postgraduate courses
• New building for State Resource Center (SRC) in Rajnandgaon to facilitate these courses

Rebranding initiative:

• PM Modi praised for rebranding the term "disabled" as "divyang"
• The new term reflects inner strength and potential of differently-abled individuals

Future events:

• Plans to escalate and celebrate similar events across different cities in Chhattisgarh

Raipur: The Host City

• Capital of Chhattisgarh, known for steel and cement industries
• Population over one million, one of the state's largest cities
• Home to Mahant Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Medical College
• Notable attractions: Doodhadhari Monastery and Temple, Rajiv Gandhi Smriti Mandir
• Major trade and agricultural hub, especially for rice and tendu leaves
• Raipur Airport connects the city to major destinations, boosting its economic importance