Purple Fest sends out clear message of inclusivity: CM

International Purple Fest (Goa) was inaugurated by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant along with Union Minister Ramdas Athavale, MP Sadanand Tanavade, Social Welfare Minister Subhash Phal Dessai, Sports Minister Govind Gaude and other dignitaries at Dayanand

Photo Credits: Narayan Pissurlenkar

PANAJI

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Monday said that the International Purple Fest (Goa) has been sending a message of inclusiveness on lines with the slogan of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Addressing the inaugural function of the six-day-long event, he further said that PM Modi personally inquired about the festival hours before it was inaugurated.

“The land of Goa has become canvass of Purple, not only in colour but also in the spirit. The differently-abled persons are special not only for PM Narendra Modi but also for the entire country. The first edition of the Fest held last year had special mention in PM’s Man Ki Baat program," Sawant added. Social Welfare Minister Subhash Phal Desai also read out message by the PM for the participants.

The CM went on to add that the differently abled are not “disabled”but “special” for the country while emphasizing furthering the slogans of PM of Skill India, Fit India and Inclusive India.

Union Minister Ramdas Athavale in his short speech said that this festival “celebrates the spirit of inclusiveness.” “This is a stage where everyone is important,” he said pointing out that Narendra Modi-led government has given special thrust on the differently abled persons by creating separate ministry in the centre for the purpose. Dr Karen Darke, a paralympian and ambassador of US-based Voice of Specially Abled People (VOSAP), said that International Purple Fest is a “unique festival” which indicates India’s inclusive celebration dedicated to honouring and celebrating individuals with disabilities.

“It brings together us to learn, network and celebrate for the next six days,” she said.

Darke said that VOSAP is US based advocacy organization with the goal to achieve inclusiveness everywhere. “In the year 2047, disability economy sector would be thriving at one trillion dollars,” she said. State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Guruprasad Pawaskar also addressed the gathering.