Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 29 May 2025
In a significant step toward empowering persons with disabilities (Divyangjan), the Hon’ble Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution and Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, inaugurated the Pradhan Mantri Divyasha Kendra (PMDK) at the Composite Regional Centre (CRC), Brookshabad, on 28th May 2025. The Centre, initiated by the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO)—a public sector undertaking under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment—is aimed at providing assistive devices and services to Divyangjan and senior citizens.
The newly inaugurated PMDK will enhance the outreach of flagship schemes such as the Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/Fitting of Aids and Appliances (ADIP) and Rashtriya Vayoshree Yojana (RVY), making aids and assistive devices more accessible in the islands.
The Hon’ble Member of Parliament from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, Secretary (Social Welfare) Mr. L. Kumar, IAS, Deputy Commissioner (South Andaman) Mr. Arjun Sharma, IAS, senior officials from ALIMCO, parents of Divyangjan, and other dignitaries were present at the inauguration.
In his address, the Hon’ble Minister highlighted the Government’s commitment to building an inclusive and empowered society under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “With the launch of the PMDK in A&N Islands, persons with disabilities will no longer need to depend on others. These assistive devices will significantly ease mobility and improve quality of life,” he said.
He also recalled the Government’s initiative of replacing the term “handicapped” with “Divyang” to emphasize dignity and respect. “So far, 70 PMDK centres have been established across India, and this inauguration marks the 71st. Over 300 such centres are planned nationwide to benefit Divyangjan,” the Minister informed. He also lauded ALIMCO for distributing assistive devices to over 31 lakh beneficiaries.
Speaking as the guest of honour, MP Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray expressed his gratitude to the Minister and emphasized the importance of continued support and infrastructure for Divyangjan in the Islands. He urged authorities to provide all necessary facilities at the CRC, Brookshabad, to make the centre fully functional and inclusive.
Mr. Tarun Kumar, In-charge, Regional Marketing Centre (RMC), ALIMCO Kolkata, provided an overview of PMDK’s achievements across the country.
The event also featured a heartfelt cultural performance by children with disabilities from CRC, showcasing their talents and winning the admiration of the audience.
The highlight of the program was the distribution of assistive devices to 34 beneficiaries. These included hearing aids for the hearing impaired, mobility aids for those with locomotor disabilities, and smartphone-based kits for visually impaired individuals. The Hon’ble Minister personally handed over the devices, symbolizing a moment of dignity and empowerment for the recipients.
Welcoming the gathering, Ms. Sumithamol S, Director of CRC A&N Islands, reiterated the Centre’s commitment to the welfare and rehabilitation of Divyangjan in the region. The vote of thanks was delivered by Mr. Rath, Nodal Officer, PMDK (All India), ALIMCO.
The inauguration of the PMDK marks a transformative milestone for the Divyang community in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, reflecting the Government’s vision of a truly inclusive India. (Story Based on PR)