The Composite Regional Centre (CRC), Andaman and Nicobar Islands, under the National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities (NIEPMD), Chennai, organised Purple Fair 2026 in Sri Vijaya Puram as part of the Government of India’s flagship initiative to promote inclusion and empowerment of Divyangjan. The day-long fair was conducted on January 30, 2026, at the auditorium of Government Girls Senior Secondary School, in collaboration with the Departments of Social Welfare and Education.
Purple Fair 2026 was conceptualised as a single-window, inclusive platform to enable persons with disabilities to directly access welfare schemes, healthcare services, skill development programmes and livelihood opportunities. The initiative aims to bridge gaps between beneficiaries and government services while celebrating the abilities, talents and potential of Divyangjan.
Inaugurating the fair, L. Kumar, IAS, Secretary, Social Welfare and Education, highlighted that inclusion must extend beyond policies and physical infrastructure and reflect in societal attitudes, opportunities and equal participation. He said initiatives such as Purple Fair play a crucial role in connecting departments and communities, ensuring that Divyangjan can access government services with dignity, ease and confidence. He reiterated the Administration’s commitment to strengthening inclusive education, employment avenues and social security mechanisms across the islands.
The event witnessed participation from multiple departments and stakeholders, creating a coordinated service delivery platform. Eligible beneficiaries were provided with Niramaya Health Insurance Cards, and assistive aids and appliances were distributed under the Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase of Aids and Appliances (ADIP) scheme. The facilitation aimed to improve access to healthcare and mobility support for persons with disabilities.
The presence of programme ambassador Bhavani, a para-athlete and special educator, added significance to the event. Her interaction with participants underscored the importance of confidence, ability and active participation in social and economic life. The programme was also attended by Aziz-Ur-Rahman, Councillor, Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council.
Purple Fair 2026 also featured sports competitions, cultural performances and creative presentations by Divyangjan, offering a platform to showcase their talent, determination and confidence. Special performances by the Department of Art and Culture received wide appreciation, while a fitness and martial arts demonstration by Shihan M. S. Murugan, former Sub-Inspector of Police, IRBN, drew attention for its inspirational message on discipline and physical well-being. Prizes and certificates were distributed to participants by Ravinder Kumar, Director, Social Welfare, and Dr. Kalyan Kadbhane, Deputy Director, AYUSH.
As part of the lead-up to the main event, CRC, in collaboration with the Directorate of Education, organised a Pre-Event Sports Meet for Divyangjan on January 16 and 17, 2026, at Netaji Stadium, Sri Vijaya Puram. The sports meet featured multiple events conducted in an inclusive and accessible manner, with medals, trophies and certificates awarded to winners and participants.
In her welcome address, Sumitha Mol. S, Director, CRC Andaman and Nicobar Islands, said Purple Fair reflects a shift in focus from disability to ability, reinforcing the need for inclusive platforms that recognise potential and participation. The vote of thanks was delivered by Kishore Kumar Saha, Assistant Professor (Special Education), CRC Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Purple Fair 2026 reaffirmed the Administration’s focus on coordinated, inclusive governance aimed at empowering Divyangjan through accessible services, community participation and institutional support.
