Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today called upon employers and industrial establishments across Odisha to recognise and utilise the immense talent of persons with disabilities (Divyangjan), asserting that physical limitations can never become a barrier to excellence.
Speaking at the valedictory ceremony of the three-day state-level celebration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities-2025, organised by the Department of Social Security & Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) at SOA Auditorium, the Chief Minister said, “Our government has always accorded top priority to the issues of Divyangjan. We are continuously working to provide them proper education, care and mainstream them into society.”
He highlighted the transformative steps taken at the national level since 2014 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “From independence till 2014, only 7 lakh artificial limbs/appliances were distributed across India. In just 11 years after 2014, this number has reached 31 lakh,” he noted, adding that the respectful term “Divyang” was introduced by the Prime Minister in 2015.
Addressing the Divyang community directly, CM Majhi said, “Never lose hope. Keep learning. There is no limit to your success. If anyone draws a boundary for you, challenge it. You will definitely achieve boundless success and become an inspiration for others.”
He appealed to society: “Divyangjan do not want sympathy or pity – they want the right to live with dignity, and it is our duty to ensure that right.”
During the programme, the Chief Minister felicitated 33 Divyang sportspersons who have excelled at national and international levels, including four members of India’s T20 Visually Impaired Women’s Cricket World Cup team. He also formally launched the distribution of laptops to meritorious Divyang students.
SSEPD Minister Nityananda Gond said the three-day festival showcased the hidden talents of Divyang brothers and sisters. He listed several initiatives – enhanced disability pension, housing under Antyodaya Griha Yojana, scholarships, and plans for appointing more special educators – as proof of the Chief Minister’s commitment to their dignified inclusion.
