President Murmu Presents National Awards for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities

President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday presented the National Awards for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities 2025 at a ceremony in the capital, marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Addressing the gathering, the President said that persons with disabilities—referred to as Divyangjan—deserve full equality, and their meaningful participation in society and national development is a collective responsibility, not an act of charity. She emphasised that true development can be achieved only when Divyangjan are included at every level.

Highlighting this year’s global theme — “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress” — President Murmu said India is steadily transitioning from a welfare-based approach to a rights-based, dignity-focused framework for persons with disabilities.

She noted that the government has strengthened the ecosystem for empowerment by establishing national-level institutions in areas such as sign language research, mental health rehabilitation, and sports training. She also said that the issuance of Unique Disability ID cards to millions of Divyangjan has enabled wider access to specialised services and benefits.

Underscoring the role of society, President Murmu urged citizens to remain vigilant and active in safeguarding the rights and dignity of Divyangjan. “It is the responsibility of every citizen to ensure self-reliance and self-respect of Divyangjan and make them partners in social and national progress,” she said.