New Delhi, March 2 (NationPress) Various national institutes and composite regional centres (CRCs) under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, organized several initiatives across the country on Sunday to enhance accessibility, independence, and inclusion for Divyangjan.

This day underscores the vital role of wheelchairs in the lives of users and serves as a significant platform to boost awareness and societal inclusivity, remarked the ministry during the observance of ‘International Wheelchair Day 2025’.

The National Institute for Locomotor Disabilities (NILD), Kolkata, held a seminar, along with wheelchair distribution and various sports activities for wheelchair users. During this event, Dolly, a wheelchair user, was honored for her positive outlook on life and indomitable spirit.

The National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (NIEPID), Secunderabad, collaborated with Mobility India, Hyderabad, to arrange an interactive session focusing on assistive technologies.

Experts discussed the most recent developments in mobility aids and the importance of wheelchairs for individuals with disabilities.

A specialized awareness program was conducted for wheelchair users and caregivers at the Swami Vivekananda National Institute of Rehabilitation Training and Research (SVNIRTAR), Cuttack, Odisha. The event stressed accessibility and inclusion, showcasing their profound impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities.

The Composite Regional Centre (CRC), Gorakhpur, organized a one-day awareness and wheelchair distribution event that benefited a wide array of individuals with disabilities. Wheelchairs were distributed, significantly improving mobility and self-reliance.

On this occasion, CRC Tripura arranged special sessions dedicated to the needs, rights, and accessibility of wheelchair users.

At CRC, Nellore, various events took place, including an awareness campaign highlighting the importance of International Wheelchair Day, distribution of wheelchairs to those in need, and a competitive wheelchair race. Winners of the race were awarded special gifts.

“These initiatives not only highlighted the needs of wheelchair users but also marked a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive and empowered society,” stated the ministry.