Kolkata, July 14, 2026: The 31st Divya Kala Mela was inaugurated at Ravindra Sadan, Kolkata by Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. Virendra Kumar, who described the event as a national movement promoting self-reliance, dignity, and economic empowerment for persons with disabilities (Divyangjan).
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Kumar said, “When equal opportunities are provided, talent knows no boundaries,” emphasizing that the Mela reflects the vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas” by enabling Divyangjan to become equal partners in building an Atmanirbhar Bharat.
The eight-day event, running from July 14 to 22, is being jointly organized for the first time by the Government of India and the Government of West Bengal. Featuring around 40 stalls, the Mela provides Divyang artisans and entrepreneurs with a national platform to showcase their products, expand market access, and strengthen economic independence.
Highlighting the Government’s commitment to disability empowerment, Dr. Kumar said that nearly ₹1,462 crore has been provided since 2014 to support 1.82 lakh Divyang beneficiaries in self-employment and entrepreneurship. He also spoke about the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme, which enables students with disabilities to pursue higher education abroad.
The Union Minister also underscored the importance of the NAMASTE (National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem) Scheme, which promotes mechanised sanitation and provides sanitation workers with PPE kits, health insurance, safety training, and financial assistance. During the programme, PPE kits and Ayushman Cards were distributed to sanitation workers, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to their dignity, safety, and social security.
Speaking on the occasion, Agnimitra Paul, West Bengal’s Minister-in-Charge of Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, described the Divya Kala Mela as a celebration of dignity, creativity, and inclusive development. She reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to the welfare of persons with disabilities and announced the distribution of the “Dr. Kavach” Safety Kit for sanitation workers.
West Bengal Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Women and Child Development and Social Welfare Malati Rava Roy said the Mela has emerged as a powerful platform for the economic empowerment and social inclusion of Divyangjan, while also celebrating their artistic excellence and entrepreneurial spirit.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ram Das Athawale, West Bengal Minister of State for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Umesh Rai, senior officials from the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), and several other dignitaries.
