Dr. Virendra Kumar Stresses Ability-Based Recognition for Disabled

Dr. Virendra Kumar, Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment, emphasized the need to recognize persons with disabilities by their abilities, rather than their disability, at a ceremony in New Delhi.

He was speaking at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and the Rajyoga Education & Research Foundation (RERF) for the launch of the Divyang Samanata, Sanrakshan evam Sashaktikaran Abhiyan (DISSSA).

The Minister stressed that the empowerment of persons with disabilities requires the participation of society and the engagement of social, spiritual, educational, and service-oriented institutions. He noted that such partnerships can provide an effective model for delivering government schemes and services to those who need them most.

Dr. Virendra Kumar referred to the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and emphasized that laws and schemes can only fulfill their purpose when their benefits reach every eligible person in a meaningful and accessible manner. He expressed confidence that the experience and network of RERF would contribute significantly to the empowerment of persons with disabilities.

The Minister also stressed that empowering persons with disabilities benefits not only the individual but also their family, society, and the nation. B.L. Verma, Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment, described the occasion as a meaningful step towards social service, equality, and inclusion.

He emphasized that the Government, State Governments, local administrations, families, and society at large share a collective responsibility to safeguard the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities while ensuring equal opportunities for them. Verma said that the focus should be on recognizing the abilities, talents, competencies, and potential of persons with disabilities and providing them opportunities to realize their full potential.

The initiative aims to strengthen social equality, dignity, and inclusion and enable persons with disabilities to participate in the mainstream of national life with confidence and equal opportunity. Representatives of Brahma Kumaris, including Rajyogini BK Asha didi, highlighted the organization's continuous work towards the empowerment of persons with disabilities.

The partnership between the government and RERF is expected to have a significant impact on the lives of persons with disabilities in India. By recognizing and nurturing their capabilities and potential, the initiative aims to create a more inclusive society where persons with disabilities can participate fully and contribute to the nation's development.

The launch of the DISSSA is a significant step towards achieving this goal. The initiative will provide a platform for persons with disabilities to access various services and schemes, including education, employment, and healthcare. It will also raise awareness about the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities and promote their inclusion in all aspects of life.

In conclusion, the emphasis on ability-based recognition for persons with disabilities is a crucial step towards creating a more inclusive society. The partnership between the government and RERF is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of persons with disabilities and contribute to the nation's development.

The initiative is a reminder that empowering persons with disabilities is not only a social responsibility but also a national imperative. By recognizing and nurturing their capabilities and potential, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to participate and contribute.

The success of the DISSSA will depend on the collective efforts of the government, society, and individuals. It is essential to work together to create a society that values and recognizes the abilities of persons with disabilities, rather than their disability. By doing so, we can build a more inclusive and compassionate society that provides equal opportunities for all.

The launch of the DISSSA is a significant milestone in this journey. It marks a new beginning in the efforts to empower persons with disabilities and promote their inclusion in all aspects of life. As the initiative moves forward, it is essential to ensure that it reaches every eligible person and provides them with meaningful and accessible benefits.

In the end, the empowerment of persons with disabilities is not only a moral imperative but also a national necessity. By recognizing and nurturing their capabilities and potential, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society that provides equal opportunities for all. The DISSSA is a significant step towards achieving this goal, and its success will depend on the collective efforts of the government, society, and individuals.