15 Jul Divya Kala Mela: Empowering Divyangjan for Inclusive Nation-Building
Relevance for UPSC & State PCS: Polity & Governance
Central Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar inaugurated the 31st Divya Kala Mela in Kolkata, emphasizing that “when equal opportunities are provided, talent knows no bounds.” He described the event not merely as an exhibition but as a national movement transforming the confidence of Divyangjan into capability, creativity into livelihood, and aspirations into self-reliance. This initiative, now a joint effort between the central and state governments, symbolizes the Prime Minister’s vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas,” ensuring Divyangjan are equal partners in India’s journey towards self-reliance. The Mela, which began in December 2022 and has expanded nationwide, provides a dedicated national platform for Divyang artisans and entrepreneurs to access Indian and international markets, fostering self-confidence, dignity, and economic independence.
The government’s approach towards Divyangjan is undergoing a transformative shift from a welfare-based model to an rights-based empowerment model. Since 2014, approximately ₹1,462 crore in financial assistance has been provided to 1.82 lakh Divyang beneficiaries to promote self-employment and entrepreneurship. Additionally, the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme selects 20 Divyang students annually for higher education abroad. The distribution of assistive devices, described as tools of dignity and self-reliance, further underscores this commitment. The Namaste scheme, promoting mechanized sanitation and providing PPE kits, safety training, health insurance, and financial assistance to sanitation workers, also reinforces the government’s dedication to ensuring dignity, safety, and social security for these essential community members.
This event holds significant relevance for UPSC and State PCS aspirants under Polity & Governance, particularly concerning social justice, inclusive development, and government policies for vulnerable sections. It highlights the shift from a welfare to an empowerment paradigm for Divyangjan, reflecting a progressive approach to governance. The joint efforts of central and state governments in organizing such initiatives demonstrate cooperative federalism in action, crucial for effective policy implementation. Furthermore, the emphasis on self-reliance, entrepreneurship, and providing national platforms for Divyang artisans aligns with broader goals of economic empowerment and social inclusion, which are integral to understanding the state’s role in nation-building and ensuring “no one is left behind.”
Source: PIB (Press Information Bureau)
Practice Questions
Q1. Which ministry is associated with the ‘Divya Kala Mela’ according to the provided information?
- Ministry of Culture
- Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
- Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
- Ministry of Women and Child Development
Answer
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment — The title explicitly states that Dr. Virendra Kumar, the Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, referred to the ‘Divya Kala Mela’. Therefore, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is associated with it.
Q2. What is the ‘Divya Kala Mela’ described as an initiative for, according to Dr. Virendra Kumar?
- Promoting cultural exchange and tourism
- Encouraging international trade and diplomacy
- Fostering self-reliance and inclusive nation-building
- Supporting technological innovation and research
Answer
Fostering self-reliance and inclusive nation-building — The title mentions that Dr. Virendra Kumar called the ‘Divya Kala Mela’ an initiative for ‘आत्मनिर्भरता एवं समावेशी राष्ट्र-निर्माण का एक अभियान’, which translates to ‘a campaign for self-reliance and inclusive nation-building’.
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