- Minister Narendra Kashyap Inaugurates Three-Day State-Level Event in Aligarh
- Yogi Government Committed to Making Differently-Abled Persons Self-Reliant in Education, Sports and Employment: Minister
Aligarh/Lucknow: Reinforcing the Yogi government’s commitment to the empowerment of differently-abled persons, the three-day state-level Divya Khel Mahotsav–2025 was inaugurated with great enthusiasm at Ahilyabai Holkar Stadium in Aligarh. The event was formally launched by Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Backward Classes Welfare and Divyangjan Empowerment, Narendra Kashyap, by lighting the ceremonial lamp.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Kashyap encouraged the differently-abled athletes and said that sports serve as one of the most powerful mediums for building self-confidence, self-respect and social inclusion among divyangjans. He emphasized that Divya Khel Mahotsav is not merely a sporting competition, but a celebration of the talent, determination and self-reliance of differently-abled individuals.
The minister stated that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the double-engine government has accorded top priority to the empowerment of divyangjans. “The government’s clear vision is to ensure that differently-abled persons move ahead in every sphere of life, including education, sports, employment and social participation, and become self-reliant,” he said.
Highlighting welfare initiatives, Minister Kashyap noted that prior to 2017, the monthly disability pension stood at only ₹300, which has now been increased to ₹1,000 per month under the Yogi government. At present, over 11.5 lakh divyangjans in Uttar Pradesh are benefiting from this scheme, and the government is making continuous efforts to further enhance the pension amount.
He further informed that under the Divyang Marriage Incentive Scheme, financial assistance of ₹35,000 is provided to differently-abled couples. Additionally, support of ₹20,000 is given for shop construction and ₹10,000 for shop operation to promote self-employment. For healthcare and rehabilitation, the government bears expenses of up to ₹6 lakh for cochlear implant procedures. Facilities such as free surgeries, artificial limbs and assistive devices are also being provided.
Speaking on education, the minister said the government is ensuring equal opportunities for differently-abled students from primary to higher education through special schools, care centres, universities and innovation-driven schemes. “Our aim is to enable divyangjans to become economically, socially and physically empowered, and lead lives that are even better than normal,” he said.
Referring to sports achievements, Minister Kashyap said Indian differently-abled athletes have brought glory to the nation on international platforms such as the Paralympics. The outstanding performance of Indian players at the Paris Paralympics 2024 has proved that divyangjans are no less capable than anyone else. Athletes like Devendra Jhajharia continue to inspire young differently-abled sportspersons across the country.
The minister also noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi replaced the term ‘viklang’ with ‘divyang’, helping transform societal attitudes. “Divyangjans possess extraordinary abilities and can play a vital role in nation-building,” he added.
Concluding his address, Minister Kashyap extended his best wishes to all participating athletes and expressed confidence that the talents emerging from Divya Khel Mahotsav–2025 will bring pride to Uttar Pradesh and the nation in the years to come.
