India's President Presents National Awards 2023 for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities witnessed a grand ceremony in New Delhi as President Droupadi Murmu bestowed the National Awards for the Empowerment of Divyangjan 2023 upon 21 individuals and 9 institutions. Recognizing exemplary contributions across various fields, the awards underscored the government’s commitment to prioritizing the empowerment of Divyangjan, constituting 15% of the global population.

Inclusive Parliament Building

President Smt. Murmu declared the new parliament building as accessible, marking it as a symbol of inclusivity and empathy. This announcement reflects the government’s dedication to creating an environment that accommodates Divyangjan, emphasizing the importance of both physical and digital access. The move aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals 2030, highlighting the government’s commitment to fostering an inclusive ecosystem.

Honoring Exceptional Contributions

On this prestigious occasion, 30 outstanding individuals, institutions, organizations, states and districts were honored for their remarkable achievements and contributions to the empowerment of Divyangjan. The awards spanned various fields, recognizing the diverse talents and efforts that contribute to the holistic development of the disabled community.

Women Empowerment

President Murmu applauded the remarkable progress among all players affected by disabilities, with a special mention of women. Deepa Mallick and Sheetal Devi were acknowledged for their exceptional achievements. Sheetal Devi, at just 16, secured three medals, including two gold, at this year’s Asian Paralympic Games, showcasing the incredible potential of women with disabilities.

Government Initiatives

Dr. Virendra Kumar, the Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, addressed the gathering and reaffirmed Divyangjan as an essential human resource. He highlighted the issuance of over one crore Unique Disability Identity cards to enhance accessibility to government schemes. Emphasizing equal opportunities, Dr. Kumar cited a four percent reservation in employment and showcased key initiatives like the Indian Sign Language Institute and the Divyangjan Sports Training Center, contributing significantly to the holistic development of Divyangjan.

Application and Selection Process

In 2023, applications and nominations for the National Awards were invited through the centralized portal of the Ministry of Home Affairs (www.awards.gov.in). The portal, open from June 15 to August 15, received a staggering 1874 applications. Screening Committees meticulously shortlisted candidates and the National Selection Committee, in its meeting on November 16, recommended 30 awardees for 2023.