The 3rd edition of the International Purple Fest – Celebrating Diversity was inaugurated in Goa by Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, reaffirming Goa’s leadership in promoting an inclusive and accessible society. The event, also known as Purple Fair 2025, serves as a national and international platform celebrating the talent, creativity, and empowerment of persons with disabilities (PwDs).
Dr. Sawant highlighted that the festival has become a symbol of empowerment, showcasing the capabilities, entrepreneurship, and achievements of persons with disabilities. He emphasized that “inclusive thinking” is the foundation of a progressive society where everyone contributes to nation-building.
Empowerment and Inclusion at the Core
Hon’ble Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. Virendra Kumar shared that persons with disabilities are no longer viewed merely as beneficiaries but as professionals, entrepreneurs, and innovators who actively contribute to India’s development. The Purple Fair 2025 marks a paradigm shift in perception—from viewing disability as a limitation to recognizing ability, contribution, and leadership.
Shri Subhash Phal Desai, Hon’ble Minister of Social Welfare, Goa, stated, “Inclusion is not charity; it is governance that restores dignity, independence, and recognition.” His remarks reflected the government’s commitment to transforming inclusion into a visible, joyful, and meaningful social movement.
Government Commitment and Initiatives
Hon’ble Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Shri Ramdas Athawale reiterated the Union Government’s dedication to the welfare and empowerment of all communities. He noted that the leadership of the Prime Minister has ensured that India’s development remains inclusive and equitable, benefiting persons with disabilities across all regions.
Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), presented significant developments in policy and administration. He highlighted that State Commissioners for Persons with Disabilities (SCPDs) have resolved over 50,000 complaints, achieving high satisfaction rates. He also emphasized CSR initiatives worth ₹50 crore, mobile grievance redressal courts, and extensive social outreach programmes that have strengthened accessibility and inclusion nationwide.
Showcasing Talent and Innovation
Shri Guruprasad Pawaskar, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Goa, described the Purple Fair as a “unique platform to celebrate creativity and resilience.” The event features exhibitions, performances, technology showcases, and dialogues aimed at promoting accessibility, inclusion, and innovation for persons with disabilities.
Participation and Collaboration
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including:
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Dr. Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa
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Dr. Virendra Kumar, Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment
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Shri Ramdas Athawale, Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment
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Shri Shripad Naik, Minister of State for New Renewable Energy
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Shri Subhash Phal Desai, Minister for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Goa
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Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, DEPwD
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Dr. V. Candavelou, Chief Secretary of Goa
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Shri Prasanna Acharya, Secretary, DEPwD Goa
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Shri Shombi Sharp, UN Resident Coordinator in India
The Purple Fair 2025 was organized by the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Directorate of Social Welfare, and the Entertainment Society of Goa, in collaboration with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India.
Leading organizations such as NCPEDP, Saksham, Bookshare, DAIG, Rising Flame, and United Nations India were also part of the initiative. The event was attended by ambassadors and advocates of inclusion including Sadiya Bandodkar, Sakshi Kale, Xerif Shaik, Manju Sharma, Lalit Pargi, and several others who continue to inspire social change through their advocacy.
Conclusion
The Purple Fair 2025 stands as a landmark celebration of inclusion, empowerment, and accessibility, representing India’s growing recognition of persons with disabilities as equal contributors to society. By promoting awareness, participation, and innovation, the festival reinforces the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’, where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive with dignity and independence.
