Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 1: The Composite Regional Centre (CRC), A&N Islands, under the aegis of National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities (NIEPMD), Chennai, and the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, conducted a day-long Purple Fair- 2026 on 30th January, 2026 in the auditorium of Govt. Girls SSS, in collaboration with the Departments of Social Welfare & Education. Purple Fair 2026, a Prime Minister’s flagship initiative, was conceptualized to celebrate the abilities, talents, and potential of Divyangjan, while creating a single-window, inclusive platform for direct access to welfare schemes, health services, skill development, and livelihood opportunities.
Inaugurating the Fair as the chief guest, Shri L. Kumar, IAS, Secretary, Social Welfare & Education, emphasized that true inclusion goes beyond infrastructure and policies and must reflect in attitudes, opportunities, and equal participation. He lauded the Purple Fair as a meaningful initiative that bridges departments and communities, ensuring that Divyangjan are able to access Government services with dignity, ease, and confidence. He reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to strengthening inclusive education, employment, and social security mechanisms across the Islands.
The Purple Fair was further elevated by the presence of Programme Ambassador Smt. Bhavani, a Para Athlete and Special Educator, whose interaction inspired participants and reinforced the importance of confidence, ability, and active participation. Eligible beneficiaries were facilitated with Niramaya Health Insurance Cards, and assistive aids and appliances under the ADIP Scheme were distributed. The function was also graced by Shri Aziz- Ur- Rahman, Councillor, SVPMC.
The event was further enriched with sports competitions, cultural performances, and creative expressions by Divyangjan, showcasing their confidence, talent, and determination. Special performances by the Department of Art & Culture and an inspirational Fitness and Martial Arts demonstration by Shihan M. S. Murugan, Ex Sub-Inspector of Police, IRBN, drew wide appreciation. Prizes and certificates were awarded by Shri Ravinder Kumar, Director, Social Welfare & Dr. Kalyan Kadbhane, Deputy Director, AYUSH.
Earlier, as a precursor to Purple Fair 2026, the Composite Regional Centre (CRC), in collaboration with the Directorate of Education, organized a Pre-Event Sports Meet for Divyangjan on 16th and 17th January 2026 at Netaji Stadium, Sri Vijaya Puram. Various sporting events were conducted in an inclusive and accessible manner, and medals, trophies and certificates were distributed to the winners and participants, celebrating the sporting spirit and abilities of Divyangjan.
In her welcome address, Smti. Sumitha Mol. S, Director, CRC A&N Islands, highlighted the vision of Purple Fair as a platform that recognizes abilities rather than disabilities while the vote of thanks was delivered by Shri Kishore Kumar Saha, Assistant Professor (Special Education), CRC A&N Islands.