President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday presented the National Awards for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities for 2025 in New Delhi, marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Addressing the gathering, the President said persons with disabilities deserve full equality and must be active participants in the country’s development. She stressed that inclusion should be a collective responsibility, not an act of charity, and noted that true progress is reflected in the equal participation of Divyangjan. The 2025 theme, “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” aligns with this vision, she added.
President Murmu said India is moving towards a rights-based, dignity-centred framework for persons with disabilities, moving past a welfare-driven approach. She highlighted that the use of the term “Divyangjan” since 2015 reflects societal respect and recognition.
The President noted that the government is strengthening the institutional ecosystem for inclusion through national-level centres focused on sign language research, mental health rehabilitation, and sports training. She added that millions of people have received Unique Disability ID cards, enabling easier access to benefits and services.
President Murmu also urged society to remain aware and proactive in protecting the interests of persons with disabilities, saying that ensuring dignity, self-reliance and self-respect for Divyangjan is the responsibility of every citizen.