Celebrating dignity and inclusion
Purple Fest 2025 Showcases Empowerment of Divyangjan: Purple Fest 2025 was held on 10–11 September 2025 at Amity University, Noida. Organized by the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC) in collaboration with the university, the festival highlighted the creativity and resilience of Divyangjan. It promoted the idea that disability is not a limitation but a unique form of strength.
The event was inaugurated by Manmeet Kaur Nanda, Additional Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), and Dr. Balvinder Shukla, Vice Chancellor of Amity University. Their presence emphasized the government’s support for inclusive policies.
Static GK fact: The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities works under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
Honouring extraordinary achievement
One of the most inspiring moments was the recognition of Gurdeep Kaur Vasu, the first deafblind Indian to secure a government job under the multiple disabled category. She now serves in the Commercial Tax Department of Madhya Pradesh. Her achievement reflects both individual perseverance and systemic progress toward inclusive employment.
Events that inspired participation
The festival hosted a variety of events aimed at promoting empowerment and self-reliance.
- Art and craft exhibitions displayed innovative works created by Divyangjan.
- Entrepreneurship stalls (22 in total) provided a marketplace for Divyangjan entrepreneurs to sell products.
- Cultural and sports activities highlighted diversity, music, dance, and teamwork.
- Continuing Rehabilitation Education (CRE) programmes focused on Indian Sign Language (ISL) and modern inclusive education techniques.
Static GK Tip: The Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC) was set up in 2015 in New Delhi to promote ISL and professional training.
Redefining disability in India
Purple Fest 2025 reinforced a rights-based approach to disability. The key messages emphasized that disability is not weakness, assistive devices are not charity, and respect is a right. This aligns with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, which guarantees equality and non-discrimination for Divyangjan.
Static GK fact: India ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) in 2007.
Looking ahead
The festival successfully merged policy, participation, and purpose. It demonstrated how awareness, accessibility, and empowerment can help build an inclusive society where Divyangjan are recognized as contributors to culture, economy, and governance.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Purple Fest 2025 Showcases Empowerment of Divyangjan:
| Topic | Detail |
| Event | Purple Fest 2025 |
| Dates | 10–11 September 2025 |
| Venue | Amity University, Noida |
| Organized by | ISLRTC and Amity University |
| Inaugurated by | Manmeet Kaur Nanda and Dr. Balvinder Shukla |
| Key recognition | Gurdeep Kaur Vasu, first deafblind Indian in govt service |
| Entrepreneurship stalls | 22 stalls by Divyangjan entrepreneurs |
| Key programmes | Art & craft, cultural events, CRE programmes |
| Policy link | Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 |
| Global context | India ratified UNCRPD in 2007 |
