*Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Gave the Term ‘Divyang’ a New Meaning of Dignity and Self-Respect, Says Chief Minister
*Assistive Devices Worth ₹3.58 Crore Distributed Under Project ‘Sahara’; 1,739 Divyangjans Benefit
*₹ 7 Crore Announced for Renovation, Repair and Beautification of Sardar Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium*
TFP Bureau, Raipur, August 3, 2026: Reaffirming the State Government’s commitment to the dignity, inclusion and empowerment of _Divyangjans_, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai said that the hallmark of a sensitive and progressive society lies in ensuring equal opportunities, respect and the right to progress for every individual. He said that Divyangjans are an integral part of society, and it is the responsibility of the government to provide them with opportunities that enable them to realise their talent, ability and confidence.
Addressing the assistive devices distribution programme organised today under Project ‘Sahara’ at Sardar Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium in Raipur, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the State Government is continuously working towards the social, educational and economic empowerment of Divyangjans so that they become self-reliant and contribute to society with dignity.
Highlighting the transformative approach of the Central Government, Shri Sai said Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has brought about a historic change in the country’s outlook towards persons with special needs. Besides expanding welfare initiatives, he said, the Prime Minister introduced the term ‘Divyang’, instilling a new sense of dignity and self-respect. “This is not merely a change in terminology, but a transformation in society’s mindset and perspective,” he remarked.
Chief Minister further said that inspired by the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas aur Sabka Prayas’, the Chhattisgarh Government remains firmly committed to making the lives of Divyangjans more accessible, secure and self-reliant.
On the occasion, Shri Sai announced ₹ 7 crore for the renovation, repair and beautification of Sardar Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium. He said strengthening sports infrastructure is essential not only for athletes but also for hosting important social and public welfare programmes.
On the occasion, Chief Minister distributed a wide range of assistive devices, including motorised tricycles, tricycles, wheelchairs, hearing aids, artificial limbs, crutches, walking sticks and other modern mobility aids to a large number of beneficiaries. Interacting warmly with the recipients, he said these devices represent much more than physical assistance. “They symbolise self-respect, confidence and the beginning of a more independent life,” he said, adding that the equipment would enable Divyangjans to pursue education, employment, mobility and daily activities with greater independence while strengthening their participation in the social mainstream.
Beginning his address by extending greetings to the people of the State on the first Monday of the holy month of Shravan, Shri Sai prayed to Lord Shiva for prosperity, health and happiness of all the people of the state. He said Indian culture inspires service, compassion and humanity, and helping the weaker and underprivileged sections of society is a shared responsibility.
Chief Minister informed that a special campaign conducted in Raipur district led to the comprehensive screening of Divyangjans, resulting in the identification of more than 1,600 persons with disabilities. He said that this the ambitious initiative has received ₹ 3.58 crore from the Government of India. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the Central Government for their support. He added that coordinated efforts by the Centre and the State are bringing meaningful and positive changes in the lives of Divyangjans.
He further informed that 500 to 600 beneficiaries had already received assistive devices under the campaign, while over 1,000 beneficiaries were provided with various aids during Monday’s programme. Altogether, 1,739 Divyangjans have benefited under Project ‘Sahara’. The Chief Minister said the initiative goes beyond the distribution of equipment and represents a significant step towards ensuring a more dignified, independent and self-reliant life for persons with disabilities.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to the holistic welfare of Divyangjans, Shri Sai said the State is effectively implementing schemes relating to assistive devices, social security pensions, reservation in education and employment, skill development, rehabilitation and several other welfare programmes. He assured that no eligible Divyangjan would be deprived of government benefits and urged beneficiaries to make full use of the available schemes.
Chief Minister Shri Sai lauded the Raipur district administration for several citizen-centric initiatives, including Project Dhadkan, Project Suraksha, Project Red Cross, Project Dadhichi, Project Zindagi Muskurayegi, Project Nikshay Mitra, Project Vandan and Project Golden Hour, describing them as exemplary models of sensitive and people-oriented governance. He said Project ‘Sahara’ has emerged as another significant initiative, bringing renewed hope, improved accessibility and greater confidence to Divyangjans. On the occasion, he also launched Project Saral and Project Golden Hour, besides releasing the coffee table book titled “Raipur Advancing on the Path of Progress Through Innovation.”
Revenue Minister Shri Tank Ram Verma said the assistive devices distributed under Project ‘Sahara’ would make the lives of Divyangjans easier, safer and more self-reliant. He emphasised that while Divyangjans may face physical challenges, their talent, ability and determination remain unmatched.
Technical Education Minister Guru Khushwant Saheb said Project ‘Sahara’ is far more than an assistive devices distribution programme. It is a campaign dedicated to self-respect, self-reliance and social inclusion. He said that in the era of Digital India, the State Government is regularly imparting skill training to Divyangjans through ITIs and polytechnic institutions, enabling them to become skilled, self-dependent and gainfully employed. The assistive devices distributed today, he added, would open new avenues for independent living and greater opportunities.
*Chief Minister Visits Welfare and Innovation Stalls
During the programme, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai visited exhibition stalls showcasing various public welfare initiatives and innovative projects implemented by the Raipur district administration. He interacted with beneficiaries to understand how government schemes had improved their lives and directed officials to ensure that every welfare programme reaches the last eligible beneficiary with transparency and compassion.
Appreciating the district administration’s innovative initiatives, the Chief Minister said such efforts play a vital role in taking the spirit of good governance to every section of society.
On this occasion, MLA Shri Sunil Soni, MLA Shri Anuj Sharma, MLA Shri Indrakumar Sahu, Raipur Zila Panchayat Chairman Shri Naveen Kumar Agrawal, Principal Secretary, Social Welfare, Smt. Shahla Nigar, Divisional Commissioner Shri Shyam Dhawade, Collector Shri Gaurav Singh, public representatives, senior officials, social workers, and a large number of Divyangjans along with their family members were also present.
