The International Purple Fest – Goa 2024, a week-long celebration of inclusivity, diversity, and empowerment, concluded on Saturday with a spectacular closing ceremony. Organized by the State Commissioner’s Office for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and the Directorate of Social Welfare, Government of Goa, in collaboration with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, the festival brought together here in Goa Persons with Disabilities (PwD’s) from India and 17 countries.
The closing ceremony, held at the D.B. Grounds, Campal, Panaji, was graced by Chief Minister Dr. Promod Sawant and other dignitaries including guests of honour Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Tanavade, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Shipping and Waterways, Rajesh Agarwal (IAS) in the presence of Minister for Social Welfare, Subhash Phal Dessai and Chief Secretary, Government of Goa, Dr. Puneet Kumar Goel, IAS.
The event witnessed a culmination of talent, creativity, and resilience as Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) showcased their abilities through various performances, workshops, and experience zones.
Reflecting on the success of the week-long festival, Chief Minister, Dr. Pramod Sawant stated, “When we come together with shared vision of inclusivity, there is no limit to what we can achieve. The collaborated efforts of the State Commission for Persons with Disabilities and the Directorate of the Social Welfare under the Government of Goa and the Department of the Empowerment of the Person with the Disability from the Ministry of Social Justice Employment Government of India in making the International Purple Fest – Goa 2024 the remarkable success was achieved.”
Dr Pramod Sawant added that with 13 ,000 delegations from all the corners of the world the festival has scaled heights in two years. “As we draw the curtain of the International Purple Fairs, let it not be at the end but, a stepping stone towards the more inclusive society,” Sawant said. He praised and thanked he delegates of the festival for being strong individuals and beacons positivity.
Minister of Social Welfare, Subhash Phal Dessai speaking to the gathering said, “a year ago this society was not sensitised on a large scale about disability, but here in Goa today we see persons with and without disabilities taking up the initiative together being advocates and striving towards making Goa an inclusive place , which has been replicated across the country.” He added that Inclusion is a two -way process which has been happening in Goa. And Purple Fest has allowed for a change in the mindset of the people and within the government. He praised and thanked the organisers, volunteers and participating NGO’s and organisations who came together to make International Purple Fest-Goa 2024 an event that touches lives.
Throughout the week, the festival featured a diverse array of events, including workshops, cultural performances, and interactive experience zones aimed at fostering awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by Persons with Disabilities. Participants engaged in meaningful discussions, shared inspiring stories, and connected with each other, contributing to the festival’s overarching theme of empowerment and integration.
One of the highlights of the closing ceremony was the recognition of outstanding achievements and contributions by individuals and organizations dedicated to the cause of Persons with Disabilities. Awards were presented in various categories to honor those who have made significant strides in promoting inclusivity and accessibility.
On the occasion, a MoU about creating an aggregating platform for livelihoods and employment for persons with disabilities was signed between the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and National Human Resources Development Network.
The success of the International Purple Fest – Goa 2024 is a testament to the collaborative efforts of government bodies, sponsors, volunteers, and, most importantly, the vibrant community of Persons with Disabilities. As the festival comes to a close, it leaves behind a legacy of unity, empowerment, and a shared commitment to building a more inclusive society.
The curtains came down with a live performance by singer Kailash Kher.
‘PURPLE SPORTS’ CONCLUDES
The glory belongs to the best and the International Purple Fest Goa 2024 drew to a glorious conclusion on Saturday, with the triumph of superlative abilities of the persons with disabilities.
The International Chess Championship for visually impaired saw India’s Patra Subhendu Kumar emerge the champion and bag the trophy along with a cash prize of Rs 35,000.
Patra from Odisha collected 5.5 points and the best tie-break score, in the seven-round competition. Seven-time National Champion Kishan Gangolli had to be contented with second place although he had the identical tally with 5.5 points.
Overnight leader, Gangolli settled for a quick draw against top-seeded Swedish player Magnusson Jorgen at Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium on Saturday.
Gangolli from Karnataka received a trophy and cash prize of Rs.25,000. The third-placed Magnusson Jorgen was presented a trophy and Rs.15,000.
In the football tournament for the visually-impaired, Gujarat celebrated double crown as their men’s and women’s teams triumphed. Kerala finished runners-up in both categories.
The third edition of the IBFF men’s South – West Zonal Tournament was played at Don Bosco Oratory artificial turf arena in Panaji. In the final today, Gujarat edged past Kerala 1-0. Vishnu Vaghela scored the all-important goal.
In the final of the second edition of the IBFF Women’s South – West Zonal Tournament, Gujarat stamped their authority with a 2-1 victory over Kerala. Nirma scored both goals Gujarat while Shalini scored for Kerala.
