Chandigarh, May 11:Governor of Punjab and Administrator, UT Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria inaugurated a three-day free Integrated Assessment-cum-Fitment Camp for Divyangjans being organized by the Department of Social Welfare, Women and Child Development, Chandigarh Administration, in collaboration with Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (Jaipur Foot). Shri Satya Pal Jain, Additional Solicitor General of India-cum-Chairman, Administrator's Advisory Committee, attended the programme as Guest of Honour.

The camp, being held from May 11 to 13 at Community Centre, Sector 19-B, Chandigarh, is providing free artificial limbs and assistive devices to eligible beneficiaries through integrated assessment and fitment services under one roof. Doctors from PGIMER, GMCH-32 and GMSH-16 also inspected the camp, while more than 40 Divyangjans from different States registered on the first day.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor said Divyangjans are an integral and capable part of society and stressed the need to provide them respect, equal opportunities and accessibility instead of sympathy alone. Appreciating the globally renowned Jaipur Foot initiative founded by Shri D.R. Mehta in 1975, he said the organisation has rehabilitated over 25 lakh persons with disabilities and earned Special Consultative Status from the United Nations Economic and Social Council for its outstanding humanitarian contribution.

Highlighting India’s tradition of sacrifice and service, Shri Kataria recalled the supreme sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji in protecting humanity and human values. Referring to initiatives under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said schemes such as the Accessible India Campaign, ADIP Scheme, Unique Disability ID project and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 have strengthened the dignity and empowerment of Divyangjans. He added that more than 32 lakh Divyangjans have received assistive aids and appliances since 2014.

Dr. Deependra Mehta (MD), Secretary, Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (Jaipur Foot), emphasized that along with physical rehabilitation, economic rehabilitation of Divyangjans is equally important. He said true empowerment comes through education, skill development and livelihood opportunities that enable financial independence and self-reliance.

Also present on the occasion were Secretary, Social Welfare, Women & Child Development, Ms. Anuradha S. Chagti and Director, Social Welfare, Women & Child Development, Ms. Radhika Singh