International Purple Festival Goa 2024 Inaugurated, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant Emphasizes Inclusiveness

The six-day-long International Purple Festival Goa 2024 commenced with an inauguration ceremony presided over by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant. In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s slogan, Sawant conveyed a message of inclusiveness during the event. Prime Minister Modi had personally inquired about the festival’s organization, reflecting its significance.

Social Welfare Minister Subhash Phal Desai read out a message from the Prime Minister, emphasizing the celebration of inclusiveness at the festival. Union Minister Ramdas Athavale and Union Minister of State for Social Justice Virendra Kumar were also present at the inaugural function held in Panaji.

Sawant described Goa as a canvas of purple, not just in color but also in spirit. He recalled the National Purple Fest held in Goa in 2023, which garnered special mention in the Prime Minister’s ‘Man Ki Baat’ program. Emphasizing the importance of differently-abled individuals, Sawant stated that they are not disabled but special for the country. He highlighted the PM’s slogans of Skill India, Fit India, and Inclusive India.

Union Minister Ramdas Athavale underscored that the festival celebrates the spirit of inclusiveness, acknowledging the government’s focus on differently-abled individuals through a dedicated ministry.

Dr. Karen Darke, a paralympian and ambassador of US-based Voice of Specially Abled People (VOSAP), praised the International Purple Fest as a unique celebration of inclusivity in India. She shared insights into VOSAP’s advocacy goals for inclusiveness, projecting a thriving disability economy sector by 2047.

State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Guruprasad Pawaskar also addressed the gathering, marking the beginning of the six-day festival dedicated to honoring and celebrating individuals with disabilities.