Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan is an ambitious program launched by the Government of India to make the country accessible for persons with disabilities. Initiated by PM Modi on December 3, 2015, this campaign aims to create a more inclusive environment for Divyangjans. On Tuesday, December 3, Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan celebrates its 9th anniversary.
Through this article, we will explore the transformative impact of PM Modi’s Accessible India Campaign, designed to make pathways accessible for the disabled and empower them for a brighter future.
Key Objectives of Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan
- Accessible Public Spaces: Ensuring that schools, colleges, hospitals, railway stations, bus stations, and other public places are accessible for persons with disabilities.
- Accessible Public Transport: Making public transportation, including buses, trains, and metros, convenient and accessible for the disabled.
- Accessible Information and Communication Technology: Adapting websites, mobile apps, and other ICT platforms to cater to the needs of persons with disabilities.
Major Initiatives Under Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan
- Accessibility Audits: Public spaces were systematically audited to evaluate whether they met accessibility requirements for persons with disabilities.
- Developing Accessibility Standards: Clear standards and guidelines were introduced to ensure that public places and services meet accessibility benchmarks for the disabled.
- Awareness Campaigns: Nationwide campaigns were conducted to sensitize the public about the challenges faced by persons with disabilities and the importance of inclusive infrastructure.
PM Modi’s Dedication to the Welfare of Divyangjans
PM Narendra Modi is known for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of Divyangjans (persons with disabilities). His journey reflects compassion, inclusiveness, and leadership. Here are some key examples of his efforts:
- 1999 Election Campaign in Uttar Pradesh: During an election campaign, PM Modi noticed a Divyang person being pushed away by party workers. He immediately stopped his car, spoke to the man, and resolved his issue.
- Swagat Program (2003): As the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Modi launched the Swagat program, allowing citizens to directly share their grievances with him. This initiative helped address the issues of people, including Divyangjans.
- Support for a Divyang Farmer (2006): When a Divyang farmer’s house and land, allotted by the government, were set for demolition, PM Modi, as CM of Gujarat, intervened. He got the house rebuilt and took action against the officials responsible.
These actions highlight PM Modi’s genuine commitment to creating an inclusive and accessible environment for Divyangjans.
Appeal to Call Divyangjans ‘Divyangjan’
PM Modi has also made significant efforts to change the societal perception of persons with disabilities. In his radio show, Mann Ki Baat, he appealed to refer to the disabled as ‘Divyangjan’ (persons with divine abilities). This initiative promotes respect and dignity for Divyangjans, fostering a more inclusive attitude in society.
Initiatives to Ease the Lives of Divyangjans
Under PM Modi’s leadership, significant steps have been taken to ensure inclusivity and empowerment for Divyangjans (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan).
- RPWD Act 2016: A Landmark for Disabilities
The Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016 addressed conditions that were long ignored. For the first time, disabilities like speech and language impairments and specific learning disabilities were recognized. - Support for Acid Attack Survivors
The RPWD Act 2016 also recognized acid attack victims as persons with disabilities. It granted them legal rights, access to rehabilitation programs, and opportunities to reintegrate into society with dignity.