The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, today inspired the nation with a powerful message at the National Awards for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities 2025, affirming that “a society that embraces every individual’s abilities becomes stronger, more humane, and more prosperous.” Addressing the gathering at Vigyan Bhawan on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, she reminded the country that inclusion, dignity and equal opportunity are the true measures of national progress. She emphasised that the day carries immense significance as it “reminds us of our collective responsibility to build a society that is just, inclusive and enabling for every citizen, especially our Divyangjan.”
The President highlighted India’s long-standing commitment to honouring excellence and empowering Persons with Disabilities, noting that the Awards not only recognise extraordinary achievements but also inspire compassion, responsibility and action. She lauded the courage and leadership of the 32 awardees, describing them as “shining examples of India’s commitment to dignity, equality and inclusion.” Recalling the transformative impact of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, the President underscored India’s shift to a rights-based framework that guarantees accessibility, reasonable accommodation, legal safeguards, and enhanced representation in education and public service. She specifically praised the Divyang children who, despite their disabilities, excelled in their abilities. Many initiatives are being undertaken for Divyangjan at the President’s House, and a Purple Fest was also organised there.”.
Addressing the gathering, Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar, said that under the leadership and vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, the Government considers Divyangjan as invaluable human capital and remains firmly committed to ensuring equal opportunities. Dr. Virendra Kumar also underlined the success of UDID, accessible infrastructure initiatives, ADIP Scheme distribution to nearly 33 lakh beneficiaries. He said on the occasion that When the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, speaks of making the nation self-reliant through ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayaas,’ the contributions and efforts of our Divyangjan are also an important part of this vision.”
In her welcome address, Smt. V. Vidyavathi, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, extended heartfelt greetings to all the awardees and highlighted the impressive nationwide response to this year’s National Awards. She shared that 2,423 applications were received through the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal, reflecting growing awareness and confidence among persons with disabilities. She reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to accessible infrastructure, early intervention services, capacity-building institutions and technology-driven reforms that are shaping a more equitable and barrier-free India. Congratulating the awardees, she noted that their achievements serve as a beacon of inspiration for millions across the country.
