JK News Today
Jammu, February 13: Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment Sh. Virendra Kumar is set to inaugurate Divya Kala Mela 2025 in Jammu on Friday. The mela will be hosted at Gulshan Ground, Jammu, from February 14 to February 24.
The mela will be orgnaised by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan) (DEPwD) under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment in collaboration with the National Divyangjan Finance and Development Corporation (NDFDC).
The event aims to showcase products, skills and craftsmanship of Divyang (PwD) entrepreneurs and artisans from across the country. The mela will be a platform for economic empowerment, offering visitors diverse products from various states, including handicrafts, handlooms, embroidery works, packaged food, eco-friendly products and jewellery. This initiative promotes the ‘Vocal for Local’ vision by showcasing handmade products.
As a movement towards economic inclusion, the Divya Kala Mela is dedicated to empowering Divyang artisans by providing them with marketing opportunities and a chance to display their talent. It is part of a nationwide movement, with previous editions successfully held in Delhi, Mumbai, Bhopal, Guwahati, Jaipur, Bengaluru, Chennai, Patna, Nagpur, Pune, and many other cities.
The Jammu edition will witness participation from around 100 divyang artisans and entrepreneurs representing approximately 20 states and Union Territories. The categories of products on display include home decor & lifestyle, clothing and textiles, stationery and eco-friendly products, packaged and organic food, toys and gifts, personal accessories and jewellery.
The 11-day fair will not only be a shopping destination but also a cultural hub, featuring performances by divyang artists and renowned professionals. A highlight of the event will be a special cultural program, ‘Divya Kala Shakti’, presented by divyang artists on February 24, 2025.
In addition to the exhibition and performances, the Divya Kala Mela 2025 will feature interactive experience zones for different disabilities, Divyangjan sports activities and exhibitions of new assistive aids and appliances. The fair will be open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM at Gulshan Ground, Jammu.