The Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment inaugurated the 31st Divya Kela Mela at Ravindra Sadan, Kolkata on July 14, 2026, which will run until July 22, 2026. This event marks a historic milestone as the first joint initiative between the Government of India and the Government of West Bengal for empowerment of Divyangjan (persons with disabilities).
The Mela features approximately 40 stalls, predominantly showcasing products from artisans of West Bengal, providing a national platform for Divyang entrepreneurs to access markets across India. Union Minister Dr Virendra Kumar emphasized that the government's approach has shifted from welfare-based to rights-based empowerment, revealing that since 2014, financial assistance of ₹1,462 crores has been extended to approximately 1.82 lakh Divyang beneficiaries to promote self-employment and entrepreneurship.
The event highlighted the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme which selects 20 students with disabilities annually for higher education abroad. Assistive devices distributed during the event were described as instruments of dignity and independence rather than mere aids.
Significant achievements of the NAMASTE (National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem) Scheme were detailed: 89,915 Sewer and Septic Tank Workers and 2,81,117 Waste Pickers have been validated nationwide. The scheme has distributed 87,037 PPE kits for Sewer and Septic Tank Workers and 1,84,118 PPE kits for Waste Pickers. Health Cards have been issued to 76,845 Sewer and Septic Tank Workers and 1,04,729 Waste Pickers, while 753 Emergency Response Sanitation Units (ERSUs) have been equipped with modern safety devices.
West Bengal Minister Smt. Agnimitra Paul announced the distribution of the "Dr. Kavach" safety kit comprising raincoat, cap, gloves, boots, and protective mask for sanitation workers. The event reinforced the message that Divyangjan are equal partners in progress rather than objects of charity, with cultural performances demonstrating that physical limitations cannot restrict talent or creativity.